Na m e : ___ Date: _
Directions: Read the passage. Then underline the topic sentences in each paragraph.The common green iguana, scientifically known as Iguana iguana, is a reptile pet
imported from South or Central America or raised in captivity. Iguanas are the most
popular lizard for people to have as pets. Unfortunately, they tend to be a pet bought on
impulse. Consequently, owners often do not understand the needs of their pet. One factor
people forget about iguanas is that they grow continuously. In the wild, iguanas live 10 to
15 years and can grow as large as 7 feet. Reptiles in captivity can live up to 20 years if
cared for properly.
Each reptile has requirements for moisture, temperature, hibernation, and diet. Owning
any reptile is going to require work. You can’t just buy it, throw it in a cage, and think it's
fine. Do research about your potential pet and find out the requirements. You should get
a cage that is at least two times the length, from nose to tail, of the reptile. Plus you will
want to have room for it to move up and down so you’ll need to provide branches for it to
climb on. Iguanas are herbivores. Up to 90 percent of an iguana’s diet should consist of
dark, leafy green vegetables.
Iguanas are diurnal. In their native environment, iguanas rest at night and begin the
hunt for tender shoots, flowers, and soft fruits after basking in the sun for a few hours in
the morning. After eating, they bask in the sun again to stay warm enough to digest food.
Be sure to provide your iguana with a source of ultraviolet light and the appropriate
amount of heat. Keep a thermometer available to monitor the air temperature.
Iguanas are prey for other animals. So a great part of their day is spent keeping a lookout
for predators. Initially, you will be the predator it is protecting itself from. Socializing your
iguana is a time-consuming process, but necessary. Many people end up getting rid of
their iguana when it expresses its natural behavior of aggressiveness toward the
predator—humans. However, with time and socialization with you, your iguana will relax
and be a happy, safe pet.