Okay, I am new to the iguana game and have been given one that I know nothing about, as an individual. I have visited many sites and decided that he is male (by the femoral pores); his is about three feet long, including the tail. What I am having trouble determining is if there is a set "breeding season" for this little guy or if it differes from iguana to iguana. Also, will he always display orange when this time comes around? Are there other signs that I can watch for? Does the fact that I live in upstate NY affect any of this, as I have seen elsewhere that location matters? I ask these questions as I am trying to get a handle on his attitude and decide whether right now I need to forgive him a few degrees? Regardless of anything, we are still handling him daily and letting him roam quite a bit to get exercise. I haven't noticed any specific person or color setting him off. Is there any way to tell his age? Thanks for your help. I would have been lost without this site!

Welcome and yes keep handling, have you checked out some of the care links avalible? The way to age him is by the snout to vent length, that is measure from nose to poop chute. Then go to one of the age charts and compare your measurement. Also a great book is Green Iguana Ultimate Owners Guide by Jim Hatfield .. As for breeding season it is very close. I also live in upstate N Y. ,and my female is showing signs, not eating as much, more restless, ...

Breeding season generally runs from Oct to May give or take...some are early some are late....Do what you are doing and keep handling him showing him that you wont back down because of a display, but on the other hand, be extremely careful of those razor sharp teeth....you could end up needing stitches if he clamps on....take precautions with him and in time you will learn how to read his body language. If he has orange on him, chances are, he will turn orange with breeding season...some do ...some dont...depends on what part of South Amerca he originates from....best wishes with your new guy and let us know if you have any other questions......

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Warmest Regards from Lyn

Well, that answered my question from another thread. Thanks. =P

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At what age do igs have their first breeding season?

It's not a matter of age as much as size since iguanas grow at different speeds. Usually they need to be 10 inches from their snout to vent.

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But it usually occurs at about 2 years old.

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Merlin,
What's Life Without A Little Magic!

Well, Indy (which seems to have become his name, as the kids equate the idea of the tail whip with Indiana Jones ) is definitely long enough and is apparently old enough (according to all of the charts I have seen), so I guess I will keep my eyes open for signs. First time with him for it, so it may prove interesting, although I hope not!

Then be careful.
A lot of owners of male igs report the first breeding season having been the worst!

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Merlin,
What's Life Without A Little Magic!

Why am I not surprised! And then I read all of these "wonderful" things about being a female while they are in season...and especially when the female handler is as well! I guess we'll just wait and see and deal with it when it comes! Maybe my husband will have to carry him to the tub and feed him then... Of course, maybe he won't like my husband as well then either! lol If the first is the usually the worst and we all make it through that one, then we'll just hope that it is all easier from there! Thanks for the warning!