The Rhinoceros iguana (Rhino iguana) pose a great problem for reptile keepers trying to protect larger reptiles.
The intelligent lizard is many personalities when as compared against other species. They’re pretty tough and live a long time which makes them ideal for those who have prior experience keeping large reptiles, such as monitor lizards, or other species of iguana.
They’re not as vivid than other kinds of iguanas, such as the blue or green Iguanas. However, they possess a distinct look and character.
The article we’ll give you the basics about the rhino iguana, including how to look after the species, what you can feed them, the most common health issues, and the best way to handle the Iguana species.
Is this an animal that sounds like something you would be able to manage? Read on to find out!
Rhino Iguana Overview
The rhino iguana or Cyclura cornuta is a type of iguana indigenous of in the Caribbean islands Hispaniola, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic.
They are part of the Iguanidae family that, as the name suggests, is the Iguana family. The rhino iguana is usually approximately twenty years when in captivity, or between 10 to 15 years out in the wild.
The rhino iguana was discovered during 1789, through Pierre Joseph Bonnaterre, gets its name because of the small protrusion of the male’s nose which resembles rhinoceros’s horn.
Rhino iguanas usually have a dull brown/green to blue/gray making them blend with their deserted, rocky habitat.
Rhino iguanas are classified as endangered according to the IUCN red list which means their numbers are decreasing, and they’re threatened with extinction. Due to this, only captive-bred rhino iguanas can be legally owned.
When you are purchasing your new pet it is vital to ensure that you are buying from a trusted breeder, and that you are not buying an illegally-collected wild Iguana.
Most species of iguanas share the identical two defense mechanisms: their tails and bite.
The rhino’s tail similar to the green iguana‘s is extremely muscular and thick. If they are threatened, they can attack the danger frequently with their tails making it look like whipping. A smack from the Iguana’s tail could be extremely painful and cause bruises or welts.
The second defense mechanism is the bite. Iguanas have sharp teeth, and a strong bite that could easily bring you to an hospital for stitches. They are the two only ways in which the Iguana is able to defend itself against the threat of attackers.
Despite this terrifying arsenal they are quite gentle in comparison to other species of iguanas including the Green Iguana. The rhino iguana is smaller and less likely to bite or attack you with their tails however, you should still exercise the utmost precautions.
If you decide you’d like to purchase an iguana-roo rhino making sure that the habitat is set up right is essential.
Rhino iguanas require an enormous enclosure, which you’ll likely be required to build by either by yourself or purchase from a builder who can construct custom enclosures. They require an enclosure that’s at minimum 8 feet long and 5 feet high, which will give this large animal plenty of space about.
They require a substrate, such as coconut fiber or an eco earth that can hold humidity effectively. Rhino iguanas aren’t required much humidity as their green iguana. However, they do require around 60%-80 percent humidity.
They’ll also require an adequate bowl for them to cover all of their body, plenty of trees or other structures for them to climb and numerous heaters along with UVB bulbs to soak and keep high temperatures.
Learning About the Rhino Iguana
Pros
- The iguanas of Rhino can last for a long duration of
- This is a truly individual pet that isn’t typically encountered in the pet trade.
- The breed is much smaller the other iguanas. This makes it more manageable
Cons
- Rhino iguanas face extinction in the wild
- This species of iguana is extremely high-maintenance
- Iguanas can be extremely dangerous and could cause serious injury to anyone
Appearance
If you look at rhinoceros Iguanas it’s very easy to comprehend the reason why they are named. The rhinoceros iguanas are horn-like protrusion in their noses that is very similar to the rhinoceros’s horn.
Alongside the “horns,” rhino iguanas also share an identical head shape and body color as their mammalian counterparts.
The colors of Rhino iguanas vary from a dull brown an eerie green to a an edgy gray or a mixture of all three. Their dull colors allow to blend with the rocky terrain, leaf litter as well as sandy zones.
A lot of people consider rhino iguanas to be extremely primitive in appearance, sporting massive bodies with a spine row along their backs, and a part of long tails the triangular head and huge, long claws.
The iguanas of Rhino can the size of 4.5 feet in length and weigh between 10 and 20 pounds. Similar to other species of iguanas, they have a slow rate of growth and may take up to 2 years to reach their maximum size.
When you look at a mature sexually iguanait’s easy to distinguish of males and females. Male rhino iguanas generally bigger than females, have larger pseudo-horns, and are more slender, with larger jaws. The difference in appearance between males and female rhino iguanas is called sexual dimorphism.
To sex babies and juvenile rhino iguanas you’ll need to test them or bring your pet to a veterinarian to receive an scan.
Probing refers to the process whereby a instrument is inserted into the vents of reptiles in order to detect whether or not there is hemipenes, the male sexual organ. reptiles. Probing could be extremely hazardous to your pet when performed incorrectly, and therefore should be left to a person who is experienced in this procedure or a vet.
The least invasive, though more expensive alternative is to bring your reptile to an exotic animal vet to have an scan. The vet will be able to detect the sexual organs on the xray and let you know the exact gender of your reptile. either female or male.
Care & Husbandry Guide
Rhino iguanas are extremely high-maintenance and costly pets that are expensive and high-maintenance. They have particular requirements in the area of lighting and heating. They also require an enclosure that is larger than the average pet.
This species isn’t suitable for beginners or households with young children. Rhino iguanas are incredibly dangerous bite that could cause someone to be hospitalized.
The rhino iguana’s native habitat is tropical islands, and therefore they need a lot of temperatures and humidity. The humidity and temperature levels can be very costly and challenging to maintain however, if you have the money, space and the experience an iguana could be an extremely unique and rewarding pet.
What Should You Feed Your Rhino Iguana?
In the wild rhino iguanas are mostly herbivores however, they will also consume small insects and other insects. The rhino iguanas are nocturnal and spend their entire day eating and relaxing.
They are able to eat a vast range of fruits, plants and flowers as well as seeds. In captivity they are fairly simple to feed.
The majority of people adhere to the rotational diet, which means that they feed their iguanas mostly the largest amount of green leafy vegetables, complemented with various chopped vegetables and fruits.
Fruits are best fed in small quantities, since the high sugar content is not healthy when consumed in large amounts. Fruits shouldn’t make up at least 10% of your pet’s diet.
One of the most crucial things to bear in mind when preparing the food your pet needs is that you must only purchase food items at a supermarket or pet store. Any food you buy from the outside could be contaminated with parasites or other diseases that can cause harm or death to your pet.
One of the biggest food mistakes that people make when feeding the rhino iguana is eating in excess of insects. Although iguanas can feed on insects but their bodies are designed for digestion and processing plant matter. They should not be used to fill up an diet of a guana, and they can cause them to become sick when consumed in large quantities due the lack of nutrition.
In addition to the right food choices, rhino iguanas require calcium powder to help prevent the metabolic bone disorder.
Rhino Iguana Food List:
- Mustard greens
- Kale
- Turnip greens
- Collard greens
- Dandelion greens
- De-thorned pads of cactus
- Carrots
- Bell peppers
- Squash
- Broccoli
- Cucumber
- Peas
- Green beans
- Sweet potatoes
- Dandelion flowers
- Hibiscus flowers
- Apples
- Mangos
- Bananas
- Blueberries
- Plums
Rhino Iguana Lifespan & Health Concerns
Rhino Iguanas are quite a tough species, provided with appropriate habitat conditions and food however, they may be very sick if they aren’t properly taken care of.
In the right conditions rhino iguanas are able to live 16-17 years. The major health problems of rhino iguanas result from poor humidity levels in the air, inadequate heating and lighting as well as a bad diet.
A low humidity level can cause just about all reptiles sick. Iguanas typically visit veterinarians suffering from respiratory illnesses that affect the upper part of their respiratory tract. This is due to the humidity levels not being sufficient.
Rhino iguanas require between 60% and 70% humidity to be healthy. Insufficient humidity can lead to respiratory diseases, stuck shed and dehydration.
Respiratory illnesses are extremely harmful to reptiles, often resulting in an accumulation of mucus in the lungs. This can be fatal if it is not treated.
If your iguana’s nose is dripping with discharge , or tears from its mouth or eyes wheezing, breathing openly, or is extremely agitated, it is recommended to bring it to the vet for it examined for a respiratory disease.
Stuck shed is yet another frequent problem that is caused by low humidity. If shed skin is trapped over nostrils, eyes or toes, as well as the tail’s tip and causes many injuries.
A lot of iguanas and especially younger ones, lose toes or the tail tips because of shed skin, which got stuck and blocked circulation. A proper shed is crucial for the health of an iguana.
One of the biggest health risk for iguanas as well as many reptiles is metabolic osteoporosis.
Metabolic bone disease is caused by low levels of calcium. When the body doesn’t have sufficient calcium, it will begin to suck it out of the bones, leading to weakening of bones.
If untreated for long enough, it could cause skeleton deformities bone, fractured bones as well as weakness and insufficient muscle tone and even seizures.
If not taken care of and untreated, it could kill your Iguana.
Metabolic bone disease can be prevented by giving calcium supplements in the diet of the iguana along with UVB light sources.
The Signs That They Are Healthy and Happy
- The iguana’s diet is healthy. appetite
- Iguana is always alert and wanders about its enclosure
- The iguana sheds frequently and is able to maintain normal diaphragm movement
- The iguana is clear with dry eyes and nostrils that are dry.
Sickness Signs
- The iguana is averse to food and doesn’t have an appetite.
- The body is devoid of muscle tone , and their legs appear limp or flaccid
- The iguana doesn’t wander around much.
- Your pet is wheezing, or discharges from the nostrils or eyes
How to Install The Habitat of a Rhino Iguana?
Rhino Iguanas are natives of the Caribbean islands of Hispaniola, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic, which means they are used to, and flourish in humid and hot conditions.
Rhino iguanas belong to a species that is a terrestrial species, which means they spend most of their time on the ground , as unlike most of their relatives.
Rhino iguanas are nocturnal, therefore the need for UVB lighting and an enclosure that is well lit is crucial.
Rhino Iguana Husbandry Tips
The main thing that deters those who keep iguanas in their homes is the requirement for a huge space. Adult rhinos require enclosures with a minimum length of 8 feet and 5 feet tall and have plenty of space for movement.
Due to the large amount of space required in the enclosure, you’ll most likely have to construct your own enclosure, or buy one from a firm which designs custom enclosures.
Rhino iguanas require a substrate which is great in retaining humidity. Rhino iguanas require 60%-70% humidity.
A plant such as Eco earth or coconut fiber is perfect to reach these levels. They can also be used to grow leaves or vegetables in the enclosure to allow your iguanas to eat when it is hungry.
A dense layer of substrate would be ideal as Iguanas love digging. The purchase of a humidistat will allow you to monitor the humidity and ensure that it’s high enough.
The lighting for your rhino iguana’s enclosure will be among the most costly components of your enclosure. Because they are so huge the need for multiple heat lamps as well as UVB lighting will be required when your enclosure is located within.
If you only use one lamp to heat your reptile is likely to spend much more time beneath it, trying to warm the entire body. The heat that is concentrated only on one area of the body of your reptile for an extended period of time could result in a burning.
Instead, you’ll need 3-4 heat lamps that are clustered in a bigger area for basking where your iguana won’t be forced to stay as long under, which will reduce its chances of getting burnt. It is essential to have the same amount of UVB lights to ensure that your pet is provided with sufficient UVB to avoid metabolic bone diseases and keep your pet healthy and happy.
A room enclosure must keep an air temperature of about 80 degrees, with a basking or hot spot temperature of between 90 and 95 degrees. A thermometer is required situated in the hot spot area as well as in the center of the enclosure to verify that your temperature is accurate.
If you opt for an outdoor enclosure, you might not require lighting or heating in the summer months. Outdoor enclosures must have the shade needed and a structure that is directly sprayed with sunlight (not through plastic or glass) to enjoy a booze session and a place to shelter from the harsh weather.
They also like to soak, which is why they will require a dish for water big enough to hold all of their. They’ll also require branches or rocks they can climb on and places they can cover up with.
Planting a garden in the enclosure is a great method to maintain humidity as well as give your pet a snack all day. Be sure to ensure that the plants aren’t toxic prior to adding them to your enclosure for your iguana.
Rhino Iguana Behavior
Rhino iguanas are among the gentler iguanas found on the market for pets however they can also be extremely turbulent and difficult to get along with, particularly in the case that they were not socialized from a young age.
In the wild they will spend the most of their time sunbathing or hunting in search of food. Iguanas are a species that is territorial which means that they be able to claim and defend an area of land. The more aggressive male iguanas is, the bigger the area they can claim for themselves.
Male iguanas can be observed head bobbing while hissing, puffing up the tops of their duvets or bodies as well as whipping their tails to signal males to get out. If their warnings are not ignored, they’ll probably fight with their tails and teeth to fight each other.
Bobbing in the head is also observed in iguanas that are kept in captivity. Bobbing their heads slowly could be a way of greeting, but fast shallow bobs could be to indicate that your pet is upset and doesn’t want to be perturbed. They might also puff their bodies to appear bigger or spread their dewlap.
If your pet exhibits any of these behaviors It is recommended to just let them be.
Another indicator of fear or stress is when your iguana is able to squeeze the eye you are facing shut. Sometimes they close one eye in order to prevent being able to see what’s within the area of their closed eye. They will also close their eyes while sitting down it is possible to discern the difference depending on their posture.
If the iguana’s eyes appear to be closed, but it is sitting rigidly, it’s probably stressed. If the eyes of the iguana are closed and its body is relaxed and close than the floor, they’re likely to be enjoying the company of you.
A majority of rhino iguanas seem comfortable and friendly in the wild, which is why they’re a favorite alternative to the more moody green Iguana.
They also enjoy being brushed under the chin, or pet by their owner, like a cat.
Handling Safety
Rhino iguanas are able to be safely handled if they are socialized well, however it is essential to that you are paying attention to their body and language.
A grumpy iguana could take one of you into the hospital, if don’t take your precautions.
It is recommended to purchase an iguana while it’s still an infant, as they’re too small to be a threat to you, even if they decide to bite you. Small handling sessions, a couple of times throughout the day will the iguana get used to being handled without overstressing them too much.
Adult iguanas can cause a lot of harm even when they’re not trying to. The claws they use to aid them in climbing, can easily tear your arm.
When you hold your iguana particularly if it’s an adult, keep it securely against your body, with one hand supporting your chest while the other supports the tail and rear legs to reduce the amount of scratches you could get.
Some people prefer to let their pet iguana sway on their shoulders. However, make sure you don’t allow them to climb up on your head as an unintentional claw inside your eye could completely cause you to lose your sight.
The most crucial aspects to be aware of when handling your iguana to never ever hold them by their tails. Iguanas can drop their tails but they are able to do it only once, and it can be extremely stressful for them to drop their tails.
Purchase A Rhino Iguana
Rhino iguanas are extremely difficult to obtain because they are threatened. They are only legally bought if they’re breed in a captive environment.
It’s likely to be necessary to search online for an iguana with a rhino, since they’re not often found in pet stores or reptile shows.
If you’re trying to find a breeder you can purchase from, make certain to read the reviews and inquire about the iguana’s age and the breed, the age of it as well as information on the genetics of the parents as well as other information.
A good breeder may have a look at you to make sure that you have the knowledge to care for an Iguana. Breeders who care deeply about their animals and will make sure that they are going to an ideal home.
Finding a healthy animal online may be more difficult, however you are able to request images or videos with the iguana in order to examine for nasal discharge and drainage from eyes, existing or new wounds and to make sure that the iguana is in good health.
What is the cost of a Rhino Iguana cost?
The rhino iguana’s own generally cost between $550-$800. It is very difficult to come across because you can only legally buy captive-bred rhino iguanas.
The total cost of the enclosure is extremely difficult to determine because of the dimensions you require and the variety of the prices for custom enclosures can be, however, it is advisable to save between $2 and $3k if you purchasing a custom-built enclosure that is shipped to you.
If you’re creating the enclosure yourself, you might be able build an enclosure at a fraction of the cost or less, however it is recommended to purchase it from a reputable business since they’ll know how to construct the enclosure in order to make it as secure as it can be for your pet.
In addition to the enclosure itself You will require three to four heat lamps. They cost between $50 and $60 for the bulbs, and $60-$75 for the lamp that houses the bulbs. Additionally, you’ll need 3-4 UVB lamps and bulbs for the bulbs. They cost between $50 and $60 and $60-$75 in total. The UVB bulbs should be replaced each month in order in order to ensure that they function properly.
It is also necessary to purchase a large water dish or pool which will cost between $10 and $50 depending on the quality of a dish you’d like to have. Most people prefer to purchase kiddie pools for their pet iguanas, however should you prefer an aesthetically pleasing water source, it’ll cost more.
In the end, you’ll require plants, rocks and other accessories to decorate your tank. These can range from $100 to $500 dependent on the type of tank you’d like to build your. It is possible to collect branches and rocks from outside and use them in order to save money, however, they must be cooked into the oven a few hours before they can be killed by any parasites or illnesses they might carry.
In the end, to maintain an iguana that is a rhino it is necessary to be prepared to invest hundreds of dollars on the initial set-up, and around $300 per month for lighting and food.
Rhino Iguana Facts
| Common Name (s) | Rhinoceros iguana, rhino iguana |
| Scientific Name | Cyclura cornuta |
| Family Name | Iguanidae |
| Genus Name | Cyclura |
| Range | The Caribbean islands comprise of Hispaniola, Haiti, and Dominican Republic |
| Adult Size | up the length of 4.5 feet long, and 10-20 pounds |
| Lifespan | 16-17 years of captivity |
| Similar Species/Popular Alternatives | Iguana Rock, Green with white and black Argentine Tegu |
Summary:
With their impressive dinosaur-like looks It is easy to understand why rhino iguanas are so fascinating to many people.
Since they’re expensive to purchase and are so difficult to maintain Many people do not purchase a rhino iguana for their own However, those who do often praise the amazing and intelligent animals they can be.
Rhino iguanas need a huge enclosure, high temperatures and humidity, and lots of UVB light.
They’re generally pretty gentle and can easily handle being handled and petted, particularly in the case of well-socialized young children.
Given their massive size as well as their the potential to cause harm if they’re in a bad mood It isn’t recommended for those who are new to the hobby. They require knowledgeable keepers who are used to dealing with huge creatures like lizards.
If you have the money the cost of keeping one of these ancient creatures, you’ll be blessed with a lizard that is very intelligent, and can be trained and like cuddling and scratching under the cheeks.
Is the rhino-iguana it could be a perfect fit for you?
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