RANGE Central to South America and on smaller West Indian islands
HABITAT Trees along rivers, lakes and mangrove swamps
DIET Green leafy plants and ripe fruits; sometimes carrion or invertebrates
The green iguana can change color slightly to help blend into its environment, but not nearly as well as some lizards, such as chameleons. It is a social species; groups can be found basking and foraging together in trees.
Their tails, which can act like a whip, can be used to deliver painful strikes to attackers. If caught by a predator by the tail, the iguana can allow it to break, so it can escape and eventually regrow a new one.
The green iguana can swim well and can stay underwater up to 30 minutes. They regulate their body's salt level by expelling a saline solution through two prominent nostrils.
The green iguana faces threats from the pet trade and the destruction of its rainforest habitat.
