Green Iguana, The Best Pet Lizard?

So you think you want a green iguana (Iguana iguana) as a pet. Before you make up your mind, you should probably watch this. We should probably call this "Green Iguana, The Worst Pet Lizard?"
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2:55 Green Iguanas get an overall score of 2.6 out of 5.
3:00 Score criteria: Handleability, Care, Hardiness, Availability, Upfront Costs.
3:09 Handleability: How well does a Green Iguana do with handling?
5:42 Care: What is involved with caring for Green Iguanas?
7:08 Hardiness: How hardy are Green Iguanas?
8:20 Availability: How easy is it to obtain a Green Iguana?
10:22 Upfront Costs: How much does it cost to get setup with a Green Iguana?
11:07 Conclusion: Green Iguana deserve an overall score of 2.6.
12:58 Bloopers, out-takes, silliness.
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Clint is a professional biologist and educator, but above all, Clint LOVES reptiles and he loves to share that love with everyone he meets. Whether you're lover or a hater of reptiles, you can't help but get excited with Clint!
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You guys are so RAD!

[@victoriafelt3289]

As a successful green iguana owner, I’d like to add a few notes. First, Clint is right! Most people are not meant to be iguana owners. Even my iguana (a retired breeder we ended up with when the old owner decided it wasn’t lucrative to keep breeding him), who is a very docile, adult, 5-foot male that actually enjoys being pet (which, as Clint said, is a rare trait), is an INCREDIBLE amount of work, time, and money. We live in a high elevation desert where it’s very dry and freezing cold half the year. We have to use expensive humidifiers that require daily maintenance in order to properly humidify his 8’x7’x4’ enclosure. During the summer he can wander around the garden, where we grow plants that are safe from him to eat (which required a lot of research to figure out). During the winter, we have to spend more on specialized light bulbs that help him get all the vitamins the sun usually provides, worry about him getting adequate exercise in the house, and obtain good quality food for him (he can easily eat $15 of produce in a week). Those winter bulbs cost us about $200/year. They also use a good deal of electricity. I’d estimate that about 1/3 of our electricity consumption is due to our iguana. He’s required a good deal of veterinary care (about $2000 in the 5 years we’ve had him). While Donny is very handleable and isn’t a biter and only fakes us out with his tail, we’re constantly covered in scratches from carrying him. Most of these scratches are not intentional; iguanas also have very sharp scales, and with the slightest wiggle while holding him, Donny’s scales can completely abrase one’s skin with tons of tiny cuts. When he doesn’t want to be handled, he will struggle, using his claws and creating deep gashes all up and down our arms.

[@johnnyjetton2566]

Um you put alot 🦎🦎🦎

[@flashgordon6510]

Yup, you can always tell when the weather's getting hot around here when my arms are covered with scratches from carrying my iguana out to her enclosure. She is a crabby old dragon at about 18 years of age, but I love her.

[@jeremybackman2782]

I've had 3 over the years , one was very mean , especially to my mother for some reason which we ended up giving to my parents friend when I was a kid , I had another that was about as friendly as a lizard can be , he got about 5 feet long and was super cool 90% of the time but would sometimes whip his tail which really hurt , but I live in Wyoming and a blizzard knocked out our power for 3 days one winter , he got sick and never recovered , he would escape any enclosure we used , we had to cut him out of the wall a few times , the third I had didn't live long I think it was already sick at the pet store.

[@flashgordon6510]

@@jeremybackman2782 We had to cut down a tree in our yard one time because the lizard had escaped and climbed it! She was recovered unharmed and never escaped again. Good times. :)

[@jeremybackman2782]

@@flashgordon6510 when mine would escape he'd always go in my closet , climb up everything to the top where there was a hole in the sheetrock we ran cable to the basement through , he'd get in that hole and get stuck in the ceiling.

[@ItsPapaEddy]

Clint sitting next to a snake so venomous that you’ll lose your arm if you’re bitten: “This is a phenomenal snake, one of my favorite animals in the whole world” Clint next to an iguana: “No.”

[@beardiemom]

Well, he also said nobody should have that snake?

[@aneurysm.865]

@@beardiemom It's a joke.

[@dakotastein9499]

i think hes just had bad experiances with iquanas....so i think he has something of a bias opinion of them(ive had and handled a few iquanas in my day and most of them were quite tame and never lashed out or act agressive)...though he has a point of the potential damage they are capable of...many underestimate them...but thier bite can do a number...not to mention that tail a tame iquana can be a rewarding companion ...but its definately a lizard you do not want to piss off

[@Dell-ol6hb]

yea that should tell you something about the general temperment of these lizards lmaoo

[@SonicBoone56]

@@dakotastein9499 nah, green iguanas are flat out a terrible idea like a dwarf caiman

[@HoundofOdin]

"A small angry ninja who lives in your house and doesn't clean up after himself" is the most accurate way I've ever heard anyone describe a green iguana.

[@wyfi4222]

Well small is a trait that some do not follow lol

[@blondbraid7986]

Well to be fair that description would also apply to most toddlers.

[@PrincessSuicune]

Was gonna say that also sounds like a human child

[@sampagano205]

@@blondbraid7986 okay but I wouldn't recommend a toddler either.

[@Ak49xjx]

@@sampagano205 I have never related more to a comment before lol

[@bardofthe90s57]

I've never seen such a stellar, enthusiastic, BAD review of anything. XD It's honestly heartwarming to see someone who is so passionate about an animal that they emphatically steer people away from them.

[@SenselessUsername]

Then watch James Hoffmann review any coffee-related thing he doesn't like... similar steering involved =),

[@ImagineCrazy1]

I thought the same thing

[@heycmo1863]

I laughed so hard at this video. I got a green iguana when I was 12. I named her Fluffy. I bought all the books I could get my hands on (this was 1996-ish, so there weren't many), helped my dad build a huge tall indoor/outdoor cage, and used nearly all my allowance on things like UV lights and halogen lamps. I was so proud of myself for being a "good" owner. She hated me from the word go and would only suffer my presence if I was bringing food. She would look me square in the eye and poop in her water tub, then wait for me to clean it so that she could take a shot at me. She once shredded my wrist so badly that my teachers nearly reported me for counseling because they thought I had tried to... y'know. My parents ultimately convinced me to give her up to an experienced keeper. I'm sure she is long gone, but last I heard she was living her best life at my hometown zoo. RIP Fluffy, the most bloodlust-filled vegetarian of all time.

[@dexterlecter7289]

I always remember my suburban pet store in the early 90s selling iguans and Burmese pythons by the truck load. Very curious what happened to all of them.

[@gabriellahind3235]

It’s hilarious how he keeps smiling and telling us how bad they are.

[@cc-bk3tx]

I love the nervous looks and quick body movements he has with that lizard xD

[@G_Moos]

@Daniel von Strangle Congratulation

[@CreatorsHubCreates]

It’s literally the “This is fine” meme

[@juniorgunter7123]

I mean he loves the animal, but he isn't going to lie to you🤣

[@dexter1673138]

They are still REALLY cool But as a past owner Don't .

[@lisallama301]

I couldn't stop laughing the entire time. I've never seen a reptile enthusiast be this blunt about an Lizard. I love it. I hope this video resonates with some people.

[@raul69er1]

Llama Fr lolol

[@esdsohx1196]

Why do you hurt me in Minecraft although I didn't mean to hit you

[@ReedClanton]

@@esdsohx1196 I love KZbin comments...

[@TheMcSour300]

I thought too lol

[@RandomGameFun]

Same here, my iguanas, I've had two, weren't as bad as he had said so I'm actually pretty happy.

[@GoodnessandTruth]

Green Iguana: "I'm the worst score on Clint's Reptiles." King Cobra: "Hold my beer."

[@Che_Yo]

Human child: huld ma juice

[@ddaniel469]

Nile Monitor: breaks beer bottle, “let’s dance”

[@Crussman499]

Saltwater Crocodiles: "Get in my belly!"

[@DangernoodleDave]

Owls: *hoots derisively*

[@alexmcd378]

Dog: woof!

[@dowser8733]

I've rewatched this video like ten times. It's just comedic gold how cheerfully he tears apart this iguana. I think it helps knowing he has nothing personal against them and wishes them well, he is just acknowledging they aren't good pets.

[@zeynabuthman639]

Watching this made me so painfully nostalgic. I got my first reptile when I was 13. He was a green iguana that I named Brutus. The name fit like you would not believe. He was a giant green hate tornado of whippy biting clawing fury with the warm and loving temperament of a rabid honey badger. I loved him with all my heart regardless. My left index finger doesn’t bend all the way because he bit me so hard it crushed one of my joints THROUGH a welding glove. I also have a six inch scar on my thigh that needed twelve stitches to close because I was careless for half a second and he caught me with that tail of his. He cut me THROUGH a pair of jeans like they were made of butter. He was territorial like nothing I’d ever seen before. He didn’t love me, I wasn’t special, I’m not the iguana whisperer. At the very best I was a warm thing he might sit on. Maybe. Unless the wind blew the wrong way or a moth farted in Mexico and his chill would suddenly and without warning evaporate and then he’d try and eat my face. It didn’t make me love him any less and I was still heartbroken when he died. He was fifteen. I didn’t need to be special because HE was special, he was gorgeous and strong and brave like a little green lion, he loved cockroaches and kale and scaring the shit out of unsuspecting guests at my house. He was my Biteasaurus Rex. You are absolutely right that they make awful pets. Absolutely terrible. I will never own another one. It really is like owning a tiny, unpredictable dinosaur. You would have had to have pried him from my cold dead hands while he was alive though and I don’t regret a single scar he gave me. If anybody is thinking of getting one, don’t. Don’t do that to yourself and don’t do that to the iguana. I gave him the best life I could but it wasn’t ideal. By far.

[@ColeSchramm]

Zeynab Uthman Very cool story. Sounds like you gave Brutus a wonderful life and deeply cared for him. Well done!

[@mims9928]

srsly what kind of iguanas are you keeping guys? I thought they werent as popular because they need a huge enclosure and it turns out it is because they are "agressive"... At least in my country (México) Iguanas are like the poor mans dog, people have them roaming free around their house and they just let them go out in the morning to bask and eat alfalfa, dandelions or mangos (That grow everywhere) and then at night they come back in and sleep on top of something warm like the tv, hell most people even SLEEP with them because they love to cuddle, still cant belive they are considered a bad pet...

[@chaliejoy224]

MIMS 99 the struggle is real for the iguanas in Mexico, so they are more kind and appreciative.

[@dylan-5287]

MIMS 99 very interesting! Are the iguanas actual pets or just feral lizards that start to associate with a certain home? That sounds really cool, I want to visit Mexico so much.

[@mims9928]

DMZ Hellerman depends on the species, as you may know we have a lot of reptiles here but green Igunas are actual pets, theres a lot of iguana breeders here. Spiny tails are ilegal to keep but they like to hang around humans because of the nice weather inside houses, same With Abronias and basiliscs in the south and kingsnakes on the north specially in rural places. People just gets used to live With them and they help With plagues.

[@ginadargento1754]

Thank you so much for this video!! Many years ago I was given a green iguana hatchling for my birthday, complete with the set up. I was not expecting this at all. Of course, I fell in love with him immediately! He was very small, maybe 6 inches including the tail. He was an amazing lizard for about 5 1/2 years. He grew to be almost 4 1/2 feet long. His name was Iggy (I know, not very original). He was loved, spoiled and even house broken. He was gentle as a puppy! Then he reached sexual maturity and that was it! Nobody could go near him. Cleaning his enclosure and feeding him was a nightmare! I had to throw a towel over him and rush him to the bathroom to do that. I even played him his favorite New Age CDs and that didn’t even calm him down. I called zoos in 4 neighboring states and no one would take him. I finally found a reptile rescue and brought him there. I was completely heartbroken and have been feeling guilty for all these years. I did the best I could, but in the end I was physically unable to keep him. Your video did ease my guilt a little bit. I had NO idea what I was in for!!!

[@gendernotfound1994]

Sometimes sadly we need to give our animals up for various reasons. Please don't blame yourself.

[@DoctorNemmo]

...New Age CDs...?

[@ginadargento1754]

@@DoctorNemmo yes, they find it very soothing. It's the only music I could find that was constantly relaxing.

[@ginadargento1754]

@gendernotfound1994 thank you.

[@cyrus6087]

I remember my dad's old green iguana, her name was harley. Her "enclosure" was one of those cat palaces with a heat lamp on top, and she ate a normal, healthy diet. She had free roam of the house, she went from sleeping to running through the house in seconds. She did her business in a litter box sort of thing, too. She was the sweetest gal I've ever met, and lived for quite a while! She was friendlier than a golden retriever, and the pets just kinda left her alone, so she never had a reason to whip anything with her tail. Rip harley, you were the best

[@blame7121]

How many fingers did she take?

[@TeamSoBrokesTCG]

You sure that was a green iguana?

[@ZeddiLeppi]

@@TeamSoBrokesTCG I myself can confirm that it very likely was a green iguana. My uncle had a Green Iguana for years. His name was Gomez. I actually found it uncanny how similar they said they had their iguana. Gomez had the *exact* same things and way of living. He was probably one of the best pets I've ever met and that's saying a lot.

[@hoihoipoipoi]

I love how all these uneducated fucks be like "hurr hurr its not a green iguana cuz guy on tv box said so hurrr" idiots. green iguanas are fantastic pets. and will sit on your lap all day while you work on the pc, AND UNLIKE A FILTHY CAT, wont leave you covered in dander or hair.

[@TeamSoBrokesTCG]

Bark Bark hey dumbass it’s not just because Clint said it, it’s also because I’ve known several people with green iguanas that have said they were aggressive.

[@metalman6698]

One of the great things about a lot of reptiles is that a lot of them, no matter how dangerous, have behaviors that are predictable and manageable. But then you have iguanas.

[@TheCharleseye]

When I was young, we had a small reptile shop near my house. I used to go in there all the time. The guy who ran it was a "No Bones About It" type (unlike your typical pet store employee). I told him I wanted an iguana. He said "No, you don't. They're mean, territorial, expensive and dangerous." I asked him why so many people have them as pets, then. He said "Because there are a lot of stupid people in the world. Too many, in fact. Don't be one of them. Get a pet that you know you can handle." There need to be more people like him in the world. A whole lot of animals would be saved from bad care if more people got hit with hard doses of reality before buying pets.

[@nwyk153]

well said!

[@Rainbowskye1968]

Charles Eye: You make a really great point here. @Clint's reptiles: I'd be very curious to find out just how many of those iguanas that are now sitting in some animal shelter, or pet rescue actually started out as someone's pet store impulse-buy. I'm guessing that the vast amount of them probably were. People see these adorable, little green babies, and think, "Ah-hah! The PERFECT pet for my little Jimmy!" Two or three years down the line, and that "perfect pet" has become a "perfect nightmare". I'm sure that happens with far more frequency than what people imagine--not just for iguanas; but for animals in the pet-shop trade, in general. After all, their ultimate goal is to "sell product", regardless of who the recipient of said product might be. If little Jimmy winds up losing a finger, or a chewed-up face, two years down the line, how is that Mr. Pet-shop owner's fault? He didn't force Jimmy's mom to buy that iguana ( but unlike the reptile owner in your story, Chris) I'm willing to bet most wouldn't go out of their way to warn a potential buyer away, either. So, what's the best solution, then? Farms and breeders ( even the reputable ones) can only do so much to sell to responsible owners, and yet still stay in business. So what would a fair solution be, then?

[@BrianSmith-jx7td]

Did he give you any other recommended reptile species instead

[@zachhumpal3921]

Yes I believe iguanas are not the best option I do have an iguana but I won it at a carnival with no intention of winning it I do try as much as I can to take care of it and it is very healthy thankfully

[@MaceyWavves]

Charles Eye nah dude u were just a pussy bitch, that’s the iguana test. If u got the balls they r by far the most rewarding lizard to keep.

[@moreyceyer]

I've owned a number of reptiles, mostly in my youth before the internet where books were the primary source of information. Honestly until this moment, considering how easy these are to buy in petstores, I assumed that my 6' male iguana that hated to be touched and was gashingly accurate with his tail was that mean due to my inadequate care of him. Now, I built him a cage that took up half my room and feel I did a good job, and I finally feel vindicated. He was beautiful, but whenever I looked into those eyes, I swore he was part demon. Also, Clint is awesome and this video is hilarious.

[@teamsters3967]

Part demon?😂😂😂

[@wake777]

Same, but mine was 3.5 feet long.

[@elysowers5033]

I "fostered" a green iguana & kept him for more than 10 years until he died. He was the sweetest. He had tons of personality. He had an enclosure but he was free to roam. He could be stubborn but never aggressive. I guess maybe he was the exception but I knew he was special.

[@jadewatson2440]

Mine was the same way one big baby. Even my cat would lay in the window with her. One of the best reptiles ive had.

[@ilovenycsomuch]

I’m very jealous 💚

[@wake777]

@@jadewatson2440 i wish i had a friendly one. I had a really mean kne.

[@kevlar4423]

Had two for over 10 years. One very tame, even house trained, never bitten only scratches from the claws when handling. The other was very angry and best left alone, could be within a few feet when cleaning, but not a hands on lizard at all. If you get lucky and get a chilled iguana then you start to see the personality and less o crap what's it doing.

[@Chudchanning]

The females tend to be nicer. The only aggressive one I knew was a male, but he also had meth smoke blew into his tank by an irresponsible previous owner.

[@sarahsussman7911]

“It’s like having an angry ninja who doesn’t clean up after itself” 😂😂😂

[@xxbabymegalodonxx2474]

Lol I was reading the comments when listening and right when he said that, I saw that comment haha

[@chaosticbraindo]

I read this at the time he said it

[@ClintsReptiles]

Just to be clear, there are people who can successfully and safely keep bears and tigers. When irresponsible people get them, and something bad happens, I don't think it is the tiger's fault. That said, even though they can be kept safely, I wouldn't recommend one as a pet to anyone. If you feel that you want a tiger, and you feel that you are honestly prepared, you don't need my endorsement. Now I know that iguanas aren't tigers, but I would say that they are one of the most dangerous lizards to keep and most of the people who get them have no idea what they are getting themselves into. I don't recommend them to anybody. That doesn't mean that a person cannot successfully keep them, but with so many comparatively excellent pet reptiles out there, there is just no reason for me to recommend them at all.

[@savannahandelmo]

Clint's Reptiles Have you ever owned one though? Have you ever got to see the rewarding side to keeping them? Yes they can be aggressive or grumpy but that’s how it is with animals. They are very similar to cats in temperament (sometimes they are ok with handling and others they want nothing to do with you.) and they give signs before breeding season begins.. if someone is bit by an iguana it is entirely their fault for not paying attention to what the iguana is telling them. I can promise that if I poke and prod at Iggy he will get fed up and eventually bite, he will of course wave his hand, get puffed up and try to flee before making any open mouth threat. So out of curiosity have you even actually owned an iguana? Or are you going off of a sanctuaries research and thoughts? 🤔

[@ClintsReptiles]

Due to my research (including consulting experienced iguana keepers and breeders), and my experience with the iguanas of others, I have chosen not to own one myself. Again, I am not saying that nobody can handle it. People can keep bears and tigers. I am not saying that there are no upsides. I am simply saying that there are so many better pet lizards that I wouldn't recommend them to anybody. If you are aware of all I explained in this video and you are not dissuaded, then do what you think best. I think too many people get iguanas without knowing what they are getting themselves into. That absolutely sucks for both iguanas and the reptile hobby (not to mention the unprepared keeper). Do you disagree?

[@savannahandelmo]

Clint's Reptiles I just feel that it’s more on the keepers side. Stupid keepers are what make them dangerous. If you research and know what you are getting into you really shouldn’t be getting attacked by you iguana. In my case anyways I always looked into the big aggressive males because the big males are more impressive and I didn’t want to be surprised if it got pissy with me. I ended up with 2 males who are honestly wonderful IF And only IF I as the keeper respect what they talk me with body language, as long as I pay attention they are good and easy to handle. I’d say mines probably a foot or 2 bigger than the one in video and my smaller ones the same size and I’ve never been bit by them, typically don’t get much damage when handling either, I’ve learned how to work around the claws with bare arms.

[@LewdMama]

Vannie are you seriously suggesting that iguanas are not dangerous and that it's only stupid keepers? Even experienced keepers get hurt by them sometimes, because THEY ARE WILD ANIMALS. I'm a little concerned you want these animals promoted even further when it's clear the wider population have absolutely no idea how to care for these animals? Just because a wild animal adapts to you being in their environment does not mean it is tame and nice -- that means it tolerates you and accepts you as part of it's environment. Experienced keepers understand the seriousness of these animals, breeders won't even sell to the average Joe unless you're involved with scummy ones. Exceptions do not make the rule.

[@savannahandelmo]

oichi12 How often does an experienced keeper actually get injured though? It’s not overly common for keepers to be injured aside from scratches every now and then and a bite during breeding season when they don’t watch out. You really can’t blame the animals for doing what they do in the wild, in the wild we wouldn’t be around to mess with them during breeding season so how maybe wild attacks on humans do you see? Overall it really does fall back on the keeper. These animals are readily available to the general public despite big breeders not selling to just anyone.

[@leavemealone4393]

Dear my boyfriend, next time you come to this video trying to talk yourself into getting an iguana. I hope read this comment, WE ARE NOT GETTING AN IGUANA.

[@KiddKaliz]

Why not there such great animals!

[@KiddKaliz]

You should get one there like dogs! I have 3 and there all so calm and they come when you call there name

[@jwn5]

Damn... Why you gotta be like that... Jumping into the mans future just to shoot him down.. That's cold

[@jamescanjuggle]

😂 I love this

[@sheeeitmayn4384]

@@KiddKaliz you are so full of it.

[@WastedTalent-]

About 20 years ago, Reptiles magazine had a spread about Green Iguanas and aggression. It was quite graphic with pictures of people who were attacked out of nowhere by their sweet, tame, iguanas. The woman who had to have her nose surgically reattached after her 15 year old pet went after her one day sticks in my mind. The article/issue (it was front page if I remember correctly) is fascinating and super informative about what causes the aggression. It also points to mature males becoming super territorial especially when their owner, or someone in the house is a female that is having their period at the time (basically a hormone overload).

[@kerjaja]

Thank you for making this. I am an experienced reptile keeper/hobbyist and I do own a green iguana. Mine lives free, with no cage as he was a holy terror in every cage we built for him. He costs well over 100$ a month in food costs and we have to buy xxl dog pee pads for him to go to the bathroom on. He is very independent. He decides when he wants to interact or not. As far as males go he is laid back. This is an almost 3 year old iguana too. He will not let you pick him up at all. It is a literal struggle to get him into a bath or a crate when hurricanes come through. He goes and does what he wants, when he wants. It's like having a scaled aloof cat. Long story short is, these are only for the most advanced of reptile keepers, as you have a room mate who doesnt like you and cost you an arm and a leg even if it doesnt ever hurt you. Green iguana is the most difficult of all reptiles available on the market to keep. Please if you are considering getting one - reconsider. Please.

[@andrewpenn1145]

It would actually cost you the bones in your arm and leg, because the iguana would break them.

[@Redmerkur]

@@andrewpenn1145 they dont hit that hard lol its more like a whip i have owned a total of 6 all rescues they all have their attitudes females were much easier males tend to try to hum everything one had a long lasting love affair with the couch and almost took the end of my mothers thumb off while trying to hump her arm i had to pry his mouth open for him to release

[@rustyshackleford7170]

I think the fact that you're not handling this one, when you handled Jabba the monitor despite him clawing your arms a bit, speaks volumes.

[@melissasmith6762]

It does. It shows how much of a clown he is.

[@airgunningcolorado78]

@@melissasmith6762 you love your iguana eh. I'm going to a rescue this weekend just to spite this video! Screw it, I play with psycho accipiters and have backed down a few pits with their ears down. Broke up pitbulls fighting. I ain't scared, I'll have a golden eagle hopefully within 5yrs. Just another dinosaur. I think I watched too much Steve Irwin growing up.

[@melissasmith6762]

@@airgunningcolorado78 Falconer?

[@airgunningcolorado78]

@@melissasmith6762 yes ma'am. That was my first bird in the pic. Kept her for 2 seasons and released. Then had a kestrel for 1 season. Then a goshawk that Unfortunately died on me last summer. Never got to hunt with him. I've got 2 more years of keeping and training before I can move up to highest level license. It is lots of work and even more time. Patience isnt a virtue it is a necessity lol.

[@melissasmith6762]

@@airgunningcolorado78 Cool, I've been trying to learn more about this. Do falconers ever keep their birds for life? Or is a higher license required?

[@rebekahsmith326]

I wanted an Iguana for a while but can't afford the care at the moment and accidentally clicked on this video. I don't want one anymore. Thank you for this type of video! I mean it! (Before people come at me, I was going to research fully before buying.)

[@hexxuss1]

You made a good choice. These are definitely not beginner or even intermediate level reptiles, despite what stores say.

[@Chudchanning]

They definitely aren't for everyone. I really believe that the negativity surrounding them is due to people impulse buying them. They get them on a fluke, they get bored, they don't socialize them, then they end up being aggressive and the word travels on. Only one iguana I met was ever completely aggressive, the rest of them were like dogs but their owners were fully invested in them. They definitely aren't like a bearded dragon or leopard gecko where you can toss it in a tank, forget about it , and still be able to pick it up after months. It's hard work but it is rewarding in the end regardless of what the non-iguana keepin' motherfuckers say every day lol

[@amandastakeonit7402]

There's nothing in your comment that anyone would need to come at you for. You showed wisdom and discipline by watching and learning.

[@jaimelojeda1904]

I live in Puerto Rico where we have a big population of Green Iguanas, they are an invasive species because people bough them from impulse and released them when they realized just how horrid they were as pets. However for the last decades they’ve just kinda become a normal sight around here. Since PR is such a small island where interaction with people is frequent, and they have no natural predators here, theyve become pretty docile in behavior. Ive even been able to touch wild ones without much reaction

[@sladikk]

"No it's not, and none of them are good" *credits roll*

[@whishiwhooshi5783]

Are Green Iguanas the best iguana that are green!?!? Most likely no.

[@oliviagiblen9927]

My mom is a science teacher and she's always interested in taking in reptile rescues as long as I'm the one doing most of the care. I always see Green Iguanas up for adoption by desperate owners who are moving or otherwise can't keep them anymore. It makes me sad and I want to be able to help these amazing, evil creatures. It's so irresponsible that big box pet stores like Petco sell them and that they're so easy to get.

[@lisathebookcat4669]

We had Iguanas once in the pet store I used to work at. This couple came in with their possibly 7 or 9 year old son wanting to buy him his FIRST pet. The iguanas were maybe 20 dollars versus the leopard geckos for 30. Its been 10 years so I don't remember exact prices, but the iguanas were cheap and I do know the only reason they wanted the iguana was for that reason. I told them that I highly suggest they do more research on Iguanas and after they do choose a different reptile. They left without it, but sadly came back a few days later and the owner helped them buy the Iguana. 😔 that day was the day I realized my boss should not own a pet store and was not a good man to animals.

[@TheAbcedees]

“That’s a fantastic score for such a horrible pet lizard” 😂

[@airgunningcolorado78]

Such a good score for a bad pet that I'm getting one. I've wanted one for 18yrs now and I've been talked out of it too many times. This video is what I needed! Challenge accepted lol. The bird in my pic hit me in the face with her razor toes pissed off that she missed a rabbit. I know the risks!

[@jamescanjuggle]

@@airgunningcolorado78 that seems like a terrible idea! Go for it!!!

[@airgunningcolorado78]

@@jamescanjuggle aint done it yet, tyrants turned off the extra cash flow... someday I'll be sure to film as much as I can and find this chat to let you know where to go for a good laugh

[@dizzysnails]

As someone with a 4' female red iguana who was surrendered by owners who didn't know how to take care of her, thank you for this video. It's incredible how little research people will do before getting a reptile (or any animal)

[@hoihoipoipoi]

unfortunately the maker of the video ALSO didnt do his research. clearly.

[@lyndsay369]

@@hoihoipoipoi he's literally a biologist

[@hoihoipoipoi]

@@lyndsay369 evidently a poor one with very uninformed opinions. a biologist is not a veterinarian nor do they have even close to the same level of schooling.

[@lyndsay369]

@@hoihoipoipoi you don’t have to be a vet to know about animals. what part of this video do you possibly disagree with? i’m guessing you just feel attacked bc u have a pet green iguana

[@hoihoipoipoi]

@@lyndsay369 I don't feel attacked, the entire species of animal is being attacked, not me. And biology =/= veterinary science. Biology = how animals work. Veterinarian= how to care for them. big fuckin' difference there.

[@flytyingpa]

me:Is that blood on the iguana's face. Also me:See's the almost empty plate of strawberry's.

[@emilydurkee8664]

I always think that too

[@bizichyld]

I’m in Puerto Vallarta currently and some of the “wild” ones basically are pets. A local restaurant owner walks out every morning tapping a bowl of veggies and several of them come running like trained dogs, including one VERY large male. They appear to be very friendly and do not startle easily. They will approach you and likely eat out of your hand if you’re willing to risk it. If you’d like one as a pet, I recommend you move to a tropical area in which they are native and just do it this way.

[@robertdekimpe7207]

Yess, same in Curacao where they wander the beach begging food off beach goers, just by staring at them with that "you gonna drop that or what?" stare of theirs.

[@raylopez99]

Very true. The advice that it might be cheaper to just move to Mexico if you love iguanas that much is priceless.

[@em_jav2417]

Is this the best pet lizard? *nope* Is this the best pet iguana? *nope* Is this the best large pet iguana? Say it with me now kids! *NOPE*

[@constantdrip9154]

Lmao!

[@kingromero4502]

The WAH Squad !! 😭😭😭😭😭 I Almost Bought One

[@SoTypicallyMeh]

If SNL ever did a spoof of Clint's Reptiles, this is the episode I'd expect from it. This might be my favorite video yet on this channel.

[@alisonvoshell8355]

You know that video of a guy petting his dog to "relax," and it's a Chihuahua that's snarling and biting the entire time? I want to see an SNL spoof of Clint modeled after that video.

[@SouthernBelleReviews]

YES!!!

[@Havenblane]

me: trying to decide if i should get an iguana or a crested gecko.. *sees this video* *looks up how bad an iguana bite is* also me quaking in my boots: slowly opening the pangea website

[@djannias]

Clint you are amazing. This is one of the funniest videos about a pet that I've ever seen. I like the dichotomy between how nice you are and how deadpan serious you are about it's shortcomings to say the least :D

[@nosir5596]

This is a truly fantastic and much needed video and I'm glad you made it. I'm especially glad that you made it after establishing such a good, consistent channel that has an established precedent of both accurate and honest information. Iguanas being so common in the hobby is probably one of the worst things about the hobby and it's really good to see you making a video like this earnestly telling people that they truly are not good pets. You really do great work on this channel and it's one of the best for reptiles on youtube IMO and I hope your channel continues to grow because you truly don't pull any punches about the reality of owning and caring for these animals, even the ones that you're enthusiastic about, and I think that's great. Too many people will have a species they love and recommend it because they love it even to people who aren't equipped to handle it and it's refreshing to see someone who can have true passion for a species and still say "This is not for everyone." Keep up the good work man (and not just you, but everyone involved with making these videos!), you're doing a great service to a great hobby and to all the animals that benefit from their owners getting the information that you put out there.

[@tanishkasingh975]

Andrew Nelson, I agree

[@morteparla6926]

Andrew Nelson If someone absolutely must get a green iguana, and they're not a very experienced lizard keeper who's kept aggressive species, get a female green iguana. Male green iguanas are far more aggressive.

[@tess2082]

Sounds like they'd make a good guard lizard Thief: oh an iguana, cool.. let's take it Iguana: i'm a ninja raaauurrrr 'rips arms off'

[@nicholaslienandjaja1815]

Iguanas are basically the lizard equivalent of geese or swans (beautiful, but VERY nasty and grumpy).

[@fbi8237]

You made our night

[@xXLinkageXx]

While most of this video sounds correct, I just need to say a few things to anyone that hasn't been completely dissuaded from owning an iguana. I've had a green iguana for the past 14 years, and he is just a big sweetheart. He's never bitten me (well maybe on accident a few times while hand feeding small foods, completely unaggressive. Totally my fault, and he always let go immediately) and hasn't whipped me in at least the last 10 years. His demeanor is no accident and took lots of work. I'm by no means an expect, but the way I've approached owning and caring for this animal seems to of worked. Without further ado, here's some tips and personal insights that make sense to me. 1. They are highly intelligent. You need to understand and respect this as it can work for or against you. If you teach them the wrong thing, it is incredibly hard to correct it. 2. I got him as a hatch-ling, 2 months old. I took my sweet time allowing him to get used to me. Everyday, I would put my hand in his enclosure but not touch him. By teaching them that you coming in doesn't always mean you're gonna grab them will keep them calm. I spent months doing this, slowly starting to pet him a little, maybe pick him up a little, but not taking him out of the enclosure. I would also always talk to him. As I said, they are very intelligent. They will recognize you both visually and aurally. I would try hand feeding him as much as he would allow me to. You need to pay attention to him. His body language will tell if you're stressing him out. If he was stressed that day I'd back off. If he was into a little neck rub, I'd do it a little longer. Once he was comfortable being handled, I had him out of his enclosure as much as possible. I'd either just walk around with him on my shirt or place him near some fake trees/bushes I had in the house to let him climb. What's nice is if you place them near something that's climbable, they're just about guaranteed to climb it (keep this in mind about things you don't want them on too). 3. I made sure he knows I'm the alpha. I think this was the most important step that turned him into such the gentle beast he is today. I never let him win. When they're young, especially when becoming sexually mature, they can be a nightmare. No matter how much he squirmed, clawed me up, or whipped me, I didn't put him down until he got calm. This is a big part where their intelligence can work against you. If they ever learn that they can win, you're just creating an even more uphill battle. This is why not being the original owner hampers most people's experiences with these animals. The older the iguana is when you get him, the more difficult this part will probably be. 4. I'm not sure if there's anything to back up this next statement, but I strongly believe it to be true. With dog breeds, some are family breeds, they'll see the whole family as masters. Others only have the one master. I believe iguanas to be the latter. If someone else opens his enclosure, he immediately puffs up and goes into defense mode. As long as I'm the first one to greet him and introduce the new person, he's just a sweetheart. I always begin by making sure he knows its me opening the enclosure. I let him see my face, I talk to him, and I let him lick me before picking him up. Once, I do that, I can basically do whatever I want to him. This is especially useful when its nail clipping time. He'll usually just sit there chilling as I go through is 20 toes. He might get a little antsy on the last foot, but I'm always able to finish. 5. They love affection and attention. My baby loves his neck, back, and belly rubbed. I do this on a regular basis. You need to give them love. Think of them like a dog. If you keep a dog in a room and feed him occasionally but never show affection, of course, he's going to be aggressive. Having an iguana is a commitment you need to be ready for. This isn't just a show reptile you don't have to pay much attention to. 6. They do not like any other animals for the most part. They are very territorial (that's what all that head bobbing is about, I almost always head bob back to keep him in check). If you have other animals, I'd strongly suggest keeping the iguana in a different room. My iguana has warmed up to my dog, but I still wouldn't trust them alone together. One of the things I do is hold the iguana securely and bring him close to the dog. They'll usually lick each other, then they're okish together. I do this every time they cross paths, though. Well, that ended up being a lot longer than originally thought. These are things that I think made him so nice to this day. When I'm home, I leave his enclosure open and he just roams around. If he gets cold, he climbs right back inside. What's kind of funny is that I'm his favorite ladder. He always climbing up me to get to wherever he's going. Or he's just climbing up on my lap for a good pet. These can be amazing, rewarding pets if you are committed to them. You need to put in the time and effort, though. One thing that really makes it worth it is I can hang out with him on my front lawn. There's no gate or fence or anything. If he gets a little too far from the house, I just go and pick him up, he doesn't run. I love people's reactions as they walk by. It's usually utter fear or pure excitement. The one huge downside is he eats every flower in sight and everything out of my garden. These guys are vacuum cleaners, gobbling up everything in sight. That's still a small price to pay.

[@conradnoto6745]

I think they are fine for people who really want one and realize the lifespan and requirements. I have had parrots since I was 12. I had to rehome some because of moves. Cockatoos are not good for apartments. I had two Macaws also. One died, my other is with me 29yrs people look at me like WOW 29 yrs lol. The problems is kids buying them or impulse buyers. That is true with most pets. They need to not sell to minors. I have saltwater fish too, I feel sorry for most fish sold. Hippo tangs are not for a 12 yrs old with a 10 gallon tank. Iguanas are fine, most people aren't made for pets. You'd be amazed how many people will spend 5k on a dog and surrender it the first time it pisses on the rug.

[@romanblahynka4536]

Yes, my male Iggy just turned 19 and I can confirm every single thing you said. Especially the parts about not letting them win and showing them you're the alpha. I got him when I was 14 and some of the scars I got from taming him are still visible. Not letting them go when they struggle is the single most important piece of advice. Today, even when he's (very rarely) at his most aggressive and even opens his mouth as a warning, I can just shut his mouth with my hand (of course by this time I can read his body language, so I know he's just posturing - I know there is a further level he could display, at which point I WOULD be afraid for my fingers). But most of the time he really is a sweetie and as you said, he will accept pretty much all visitors, as long as I have "introduced" them (even if they for example return to give him food without my presence). Yes, iguanas don't have an easy personality, but I'm convinced most of the bad rap comes from inadequate taming when they're very young. This is a territorial lizard, so it really is a necessity to show them it's YOUR territory first. If after the animal starts displaying aggression, you go running scared, of course you're reinforcing its behavior and it's going to grow up into a mean dragon. Of course, I've only ever had one iguana, so I may also have had luck with his personality.

[@RealJRoyall]

As an iguana owner I couldn't agree more with everything Clint said. Mine is a rescue who's about 4-6 years old. Honestly he's pretty rad. 70% of the time he's honestly chill and enjoys being social. He'll sit in your lap until he wants to climb you or explore (can and will unintentionally shred you 😬). But that other 30% is like having a rabid dinosaur hellbent on destroying everything he can see. Lmao I love that little psycho.

[@Theflyinghamburger]

I saw this video go through my feed about four time before I actually clicked on it, because I couldn’t believe someone could say that iguanas made the best pet. I used to work at a pet store, and I would say basically the same thing when customers said they wanted an iguana. “No, you don’t.” I know, because I have one, and he’s a jerk. My mother bought an iguana from someone who was rehoming theirs, cage and supplies included. Her intent was to have him as a class pet, as she was a science teacher, and bring him home on the weekends. We were told that he loved to be held. We had two bearded dragons at the time, so we figured that it shouldn’t be too hard to do the research and fill the gaps from desert to tropical reptile. Plus, we were going to get a cage, so, bonus. At least we thought. The cage they were keeping this ~14” green iguana in was a 22”x15”x14” birdcage. The “supplies” was a terra-cotta pot drain-dish. And they said his favorite food was romaine lettuce. We paid the rehoming fee, took the poor baby, and drove straight to PetSmart to pick up heat bulbs, UV bulbs, and some extra decor. He spent the shopping trip under my mom’s coat. Our smaller beardie got evicted back to his 10 gallon (he was barely 6” at the time) and the iguana took the 40 gallon. We gave him a plate of collards and carrots (all we had that night, and I hadn’t had a chance to do in-depth research of what was best) and spent about half an hour misting him. He danced back and forth, absolutely ecstatic. A week or so later, we upgraded him to a 5’x2’x2’ cage. True to the owner’s word, the iguana (who took two years for us to settle on a name for-Kincaid) seemed to love being held. Until we got him properly warmed up in a decently sized habitat. Then he absolutely despised being touched. In April, I finally finished building a more permanent habitat. Now Kincaid happily lives in a 6’x6’x4’ enclosure, complete with kiddy pool, ramps, and three different basking points. His favorite food is yellow bell pepper, closely followed by strawberries/raspberries, and he’s never happier than when you mist him while he eats. He’s never angrier than when you try to touch him. Kincaid is a complete jerk, but I love him to pieces.

[@matthewhadley9483]

This might sound like a dumb question but why would you spend that much time and money for an animal that hates you and would rather be somewhere else?

[@Theflyinghamburger]

@@matthewhadley9483 Because he's a living creature, and he deserves a decent life as much as anything else. I didn't know iguanas hated handling when we got him, but we made the commitment to care for him. Also there really wasn't much of a "somewhere else" for him to go. Releasing him was never an option. For one it's illegal, and secondly he'd likely die within a few weeks because we don't live in a suitable environment for him. All that rehoming/surrendering him would do is make his obnoxiousness someone else's problem, and reptile rescues tend to be overcrowded as it is.

[@matthewhadley9483]

@@Theflyinghamburger good point, I get u not wanting to rehome him because of the pain and also the stress on the animal but I wouldn’t really like him

[@daveh1294]

When I was 12 I really wanted a green iguana and even got to the point of going to the shop to buy one. The owner gave me similar advice and sold me a leopard gecko instead but I've always thought about getting the iguana one day. After seeing this video I'm so glad I went for the gecko and has put me off considering my choice so this has been very helpful. It's been 25 years now and the leopard gecko is still alive and healthy you'll be glad to know. Great video by the way, I love your channel.

[@maxcovfefe]

This reminds me of my Lhasa Apso. He was a rescue, and he came with biting issues. The nervousness Clint has in this video was the same nervousness I had with my dog for the first couple of years. The sudden unpredictability of it is sheer nightmare fuel, but caring for pets like this is a labor of love. He has a police record, so no more chances! That said, he's a very different dog nowadays. I'll never trust him, but he's made such progress!

[@Hibbard1986]

When I was a kid, i had a green iguana, he eventually ended up outside, and he lived in our chiyote bush and lived in that bush for years. He loved to eat everything in our back yard. He once went missing for about a year, and we found him later. He was a blast. but you are right, completely full of weapons.

[@Megad00mer]

This video is not only informative but hilarious. Thank you for the brutal honesty and the comedy gold.

[@ClintsReptiles]

I'm glad you say that. I was laughing pretty hard at myself when we screened this video. I slay me 😂

[@paulinerayburn4404]

Also want to say thank you for mentioning NOT releasing reptiles into the wild! Especially here in Florida. Iguanas are often just killed. Burmese pythons are to be shot on sight. Wild populations of tegus are next for that if the wild numbers can't be kept down. Of course local wildlife suffers greatly from the invasive species.

[@conradnoto6745]

I've got a yard full here.

[@herpermike_]

But none of it is from pets being released lol! I guess in a very indirect way, they can all be linked to the reptile hobby! But the Burmese pythons happened in hurricane Andrews when it hit a breeding facility and iguanas have been seen on the keys and working north since the 1930's

[@maxmcqueen1196]

@@herpermike_ Yeah I really don't buy that Hurricane Andrew story. What, so nearly all the burmese pythons in Florida descended from that ONE breeding facility that was destroyed in a natural disaster one day? Sure... Not denying the significance of the hurricane's involvement in the invasion of burmese pythons, but I find it unlikely that it was all directly caused by just one event. Reptile keepers, giant snake keepers in particular, have taken a beating in the media over really dumb things. These were mostly caused by misinformation, sensationalism, and the cultural stigma towards snakes in the Western Hemisphere. However, I've also found that they have a tendency to avoid taking responsibility whenever something bad happens. Simple fact of the matter is that during the 80s and 90s, many uninformed keepers released their pythons, boas, nile monitors, tegus, and iguanas when the responsibility of owning them became too much of a hassle. It's a hard pill to swallow but it's the truth. There were no advanced care sheets like we have today. Your average dog and cat owner would see a burmese python in a pet store at a very low price, and would buy it on impulse without thinking of the longterm commitments that comes with owning one. They would then release them, mostly in Southern and Central Florida, without knowing that they aren't a native species. I mean, how would they know? Most of the snakes sold in pet stores in the US before that time were garter snakes and other colubrids. I've seen SOME reptile keepers state that we should leave all the feral burmese pythons and iguanas in Florida alone because they're innocent and wouldn't hurt a fly. How long until more native wildlife suffers there that people will own up to the mistakes made in past decades? What if a paper came out which stated that eastern indigos are suffering due to predation by tegus based on thorough research in the field, as an example? Eastern indigos are an extremely sought-after and respected species in the hobby and I'm sure we wouldn't like for that to happen.

[@artorhen]

"they may seem very mellow and then out of nowhere they're gonna come at you" Hm, reminds me of my cat.

[@latieplolo]

Tortoiseshell? My tortie is the smallest cat I’ve ever had, but when I tried to take her to the vet they put a leather Hannibal Lector muzzle on and still weren’t able to give her a check-up.

[@artorhen]

@@latieplolo oh wow, my cay is just Burmese. I didn't know about them, but somehow sounds cute.

[@ltmotley4481]

me watching clint say "i never met someone to want a second iguana" me with 17 of them :)

[@mariesbudgets8814]

My mom's first husband had 4 of them in a house with 5 kids and I've wanted another one my whole life

[@greenranger1983]

Clint I have to say I love the fact that you're so honest and straight forward with you description of the animals you cover in your videos. You don't sugarcoat anything which is really good because it gives accurate information.

[@saga2964]

Really appreciate your honesty and clarity in presenting the reasons why. Too many people are wishy-washy or present in such a way that some viewers take it as a challenge. You made it clear: there is simply no glory in being stupid.

[@twogunsnoammo8419]

I've recently become addicted to your channel, and it has me looking into getting into the reptile hobby for the first time. (Don't worry. NOT for green iguanas.) Never knew most of the info about them until watching this video. Glad I did! A green iguana is actually the only reptile with which I have any direct experience. My stepmom raised two of them from hatchlings, though one died before I could meet it. Probably because of the good socialization Ziggy had (and maybe luck), he could get a little whippy with his tail when picking him up but never gave any of us a worse injury than a slight accidental claw scratch, and never got aggressive. He lived a good 20 years, got to about 5 feet. On size alone I never would've recommended them to friends, but after watching this vid I'm just gonna share it if I ever hear someone express interest.

[@FrogyFan]

This dude's just roasting his iguana

[@benjaminflaum2069]

A family friend of mine as a hobby rescues exotic animals from bad homes, mostly birds. But for twenty years they had a rescue green iguana. The animal had its own room, and to clean the room they had a bite suit(the ones use train police dogs) that they put on to avoid a hospital visit. I love exotic animals, and I think iguanas look beautiful, but never buy one, some like my friend with a big heart will end up with it I promise

[@hannahblespecter5325]

This made me laugh. I spent the first minute trying to figure out if you were joking until you explained it. Its so funny hearing such upbeat positive negativity about something. Its definitely important though, so I'm glad you're honest.

[@ClintsReptiles]

I love how you put that!

[@dylan-5287]

Seriously! Never seen someone so happy and positive while delivering a negative message. Clint's got some talent!

[@jamiehood3165]

My iguana is puppy dog tame and I love him more than any other reptile I've ever had

[@stupid1330]

Time will tell...

[@chibicricket]

I had my iguana close to 21 years. I adored him, and I essentially grew up with him (got him as a baby when I was younger). My was a free roamer, and was potty trained (I was embarrassingly on the local news for this). He was really sweet and just liked to hang out, but that's not the norm. I love iguanas a lot, BUT I would never suggest them as a pet. I don't think I will ever own another one in my lifetime. They are hard to manage. Finding a knowledgeable vet is difficult. They get very big. Females can have attitude issues. Males go through breeding seasons that I can tell you are not fun. Mine had an old pair of jeans he would walk away with. And there's the claws, I can't tell you how many times people would stare at the scratches on my arms. They were just from him trying to climb on me.

[@GizmoaGames]

As a fan of green iguanas, I love this video. They really aren't good pets. Cool animals, bad pets.

[@ClintsReptiles]

Thank you! I totally agree. So many people find it hard to separate the two things. I love iguanas. I don't recommend them as pets. I feel the same way about tigers 🐅

[@camojoe83]

Exactly. I took on a baby male from a friend who misunderstood what he was getting. (his iguana was a 10 year old momma, she would have killed the lil guy probly) I had him fairly well socialized, but my dog hated him. Eventually she helped him get out one day and they finally had it out. I won't lie, I cried when I buried him, but I also didn't name him Fred Krueger for no reason... I wont get another, even tho I liked him.

[@Hello_Fuckers0]

I've owned 2, first one turned out awesome, second one never tamed down.

[@melissasmith6762]

NaughtImp0rtant That's just YOUR OPINION! When will you learn that? Stop scaring people away and spreading misinformation just because _YOU_ can't handle a simple iguana.

[@S.F157]

Melissa Smith I wouldn’t call an iguana 🦎 that has the capability to send you to the hospital 🏥 “ simple “

[@averynelson1186]

"A water dish big enough to soak in" Do you mean a trough? Because what you're describing is a trough.

[@GOBIAS.INDUSTRIES.]

🤣😂🤣

[@dolphinpwincess]

Avery Nelson this is exactly what I imagine happening in my house one day

[@stuartmostinsky4292]

I had a small, child's plastic pool for my Iguana

[@billysmith5409]

Or a kiddie pool

[@branhecc8387]

I use a kiddie pool myself.

[@Cuse330Ci]

I was into keeping reptiles when I was younger, I think the point I started to sour on the industry (and humans tbh) was when I was working in my local pet store and a middle aged women with her kids came into the store with an iguana hatchling in a plastic bag wanting to buy a 10 gallon tank for it. Her kid won it as a prize at the state fair! This was in the late 90s.

[@whiteegretx]

I know this is a 5 year old video, but I find it interesting. My biology instructor had a very huge male iguana. And that iguana was extremely nice, extremely docile, and wouldn't hurt a fly. He had it for a very long time too. But I had two green iguanas, a male and female, and I don't think I've had a worse relationship with an animal since. But, I'm glad to see that I was in the norm as far as iguanas go and then I didn't particularly do anything wrong.

[@makanivalur]

I was giggling all the way through this. Thank you for being honest. The title of the video is genius too, I hope it makes people thinking about getting one watch it. Keep up the good work!

[@ClintsReptiles]

I'm glad I'm not the only one chuckling through this video 😂

[@teresatanasi5143]

Clint's Reptiles This was fabulous. I love this.

[@Macyellen]

I love how even though you’re talking about how bad of a pet this is, you still have a ginormous smile on your face. I LOVE watching your videos, whether or not I’m even considering getting the animal you’re talking about. Keep up the good work!!

[@ClintsReptiles]

Thank you so much! I love this review 😃

[@GlitteryBugs]

Ok this may be my favorite so far. Clint is so funny in this video. I think it’s the first video I’ve seen where I don’t see him touch the animal even once. “That’s a fantastic score for such a terrible pet!” I’m dying.

[@lukedawg8178]

I'm 14. Been obsessed with reptiles for years and put alot of research and time into iguanas. I got one a few months ago and he is actually doing pretty well. Edit: I'm aware of there aggression and I prepared and have someone else in my house (my stepdad) who owned an iguana for many years. I have planned very well in advance how I will deal with the aggression.

[@comfyfern8363]

@@wake777 Hey, don't do that

[@sublimethebot4893]

At least do a tegu

[@gendernotfound1994]

@@wake777 there is so much wrong with that idea

[@Fastestguninthewest594]

@@wake777errr…that’s gonna be difficult but also a horrible idea depending.

[@Spyder3107]

"That's sub ideal" Oh lord Clint I died laughing

[@ClintsReptiles]

That makes my day!

[@aquacat_]

Thank you for promoting responsible pet ownership. I am looking to adopt a lizard and was curious about whether an iguana might be a good fit. Now I know for sure a green iguana is not a good choice. Since so many iguanas and other reptiles end up at rescues, I'd love for you to do a video about reptile rescues we could support! Sometimes it can be hard to know which rescues are legit or not.

[@goosegoose4835]

Caudopunk tbh I think iguanas are awesome

[@aquacat_]

Cartoon Freak I agree! They are awesome creatures, but it doesn't sound like they'd be so great as a pet for most people!

[@savannahandelmo]

It really depends what you are expecting out of the pet. Reptiles are not cats and dogs so you can’t really expect that kind of bond. Think of it more as a wild animal that tolerates you because you feed it. I personally wouldn’t trade them for anything. (One of them is also a rescue so I completely understand where they are coming from with aggressive)

[@huldu]

Clint reminds me of someone. I just can't put my finger on it, they have almost identical enthusiasm for what they love. It's really great to see these videos of someone who loves what they are doing and you really feel it as a viewer. It's very contagious!

[@vanessakreis2590]

I had a pet iguana when I was growing up, and this really resonated with me. I'm trying to decide what pet reptile to get right now, and this actually makes me trust his other videos more! Can't wait for my new corn snake / ball python 😉

[@matango6133]

Really love the honesty here. When I first got into this hobby I thought an iguana was the first thing I wanted. Thankfully, I found out how bad they are as pets and went with a beardie instead. It took some digging though, and videos and information like this are not common enough.

[@codeypredieri40]

"Now this is Green Iguana.. The best pet lizard. So, *Enthusiastic tone* Is Iguana the best pet lizard? e..euh... GOODNESS NO! But! Is it the best pet Iguana? Yeah also not that. Not.. Even close to that.. Uh.. Is it the best large iguana.. I mean cause.. NOPE. No it's not.. And none of them are good." HAHAHAH This is possibly the funniest thing I have heard all day and I have no idea why. Great job bAHAh.

[@baphometic8767]

i've been binge watching clint's videos and i'm SHCOKED and laughing at this one. i've never seen him so adamant/negative about a reptile before!

[@rajgill7576]

I realise what a gem my late uncles green iguana was. Memories of me in first grade swimming in a pool with a giant sea monster was my childhood. Sweetest giant ever, he loved his big jaw scale massaged hahaha

[@TheBloodytaste]

It is a great idea to show lizards who are not good pets, it will help people who want a pet lizard. Good job in educating people.

[@ClintsReptiles]

Thank you! We hope to save a few reptiles and keepers from falling victim to a bad choice.

[@TheBloodytaste]

this is important and I hope the channel will grow to make more people aware. Thanks for all your work.

[@toottootbleetbleet]

No chill in this one Clint 😂

[@littlecrawley1991]

I work at this reptile rescue center and there's an iguana there too. Probably lived in horrible conditions before we rescued her, since she had wounds all over her. But despite that she is amazing to work with. She actively comes up to me and loves being petted. So I'll always have a special place in my heart for these amazing animals. No way would I get one as a pet though 😆

[@JojoZXA]

THANK YOU. I'm 25 years old, but my mother (as I care for her in her old age) is wary of reptiles as pets. I've told her again and again if I get one, it would certainly be a ball python. Very good snakes. She suggested an iguana and I nearly had a heart attack. Definitely showing her this video.

[@christopherround5831]

This channel brings me so much joy. Thank you!

[@ClintsReptiles]

You're so welcome!

[@typonegative]

Fantastic video. This is a bit crass but in case anyone is on the fence... a friend of mine had a green iguana for many years. He was as nice as they get, but still quite cantankerous. He matured and fell in love with her leather sofa, which he protected fiercely any time he managed to get near it. He also had relations with the sofa, horrifying anyone nearby and leaving an awful mess. She even asked her veterinarian about it and he said, “I dunno... gross!” 😂

[@ridiculousharbinger4927]

typonegative your iguana had sex with ur sofa?

[@lilfoot63728]

Lmao when he was talking about savannahs being bad pets, my juvie savannab was trying to bite the screen 😂😂🥰

[@Revenant_Knight]

I wholeheartedly agree with Clint. Source? Our family has one. He's an outlier though. A decade ago one of our pet cats caught a baby iguana. It was wounded, and we decided to try to nurse it back to health. We succeeded but knew he could not be released back into the wild. He was wild at first, but after a two years of hours of daily handling, he's mostly tame....except during mating season. He likes to be petted, hand fed, and actively seeks out humans. He also will snuggle up to the cats to get warmth. He's water litter trained, and he prefers inside than out. That being said... We have dedicated ourselves to studying and learning about Iguanas. Over 200 square feet of porch is dedicated to him, and we have a strict daily routine with him. He has a custom cage that we can bring inside as temperature needs. He is very well fed and bathed, and gets handling care daily. We also respect what he can do. We have learned about his body language and reactions. He is in charge and we respect that. We do not allow guests or children near him, period. But more than any of that: We were lucky. Every species has their genius pets. We got lucky with our Iguana. We have had two injuries, thankfully minor. One was an accidental clawing as he walked by which was remedied with a trimming. He just accidentally stepped on a bare foot as he walked. The second was intentional. He was in mating season, and bit one of the handlers on the arm. He did not death roll, nor did he bite at full force. But it did draw blood. Thanks to training, the handler knew how to resolve the situation, and was not harmed. I do not recommend Iguanas. We were lucky and dedicated to the rescue. Most people will not be so lucky.

[@bills-beard]

people who dont stick around to watch the bloopers are totally missing out

[@Parusaro]

I have two green iguanas and I agree with this entirely, haha. I love the heck out of them and wouldn't trade them for the world, but I will NEVER EVER adopt another one. My iguanas are both miraculously sweet-natured, plus I have the ability to dedicate and entire room to housing their big, separate enclosures. Even with all these advantages, they're still a giant handful at all times. (I've only been horrifically bitten once!)

[@arpeggiosfromhell4695]

I never noticed that iguanas can be so aggressive. I had a green iguana years ago and it was really quiet, the thing that shocked me is that it looked really affectionate and looked like it could recognize me despite others. It loved to climb on me and get snuggled. All of this things happened just because it was in my house since was a puppy? So if I tooked it directly adult, it would not have been so handly?

[@ck2994]

We kept my female in a room with a hot rock and UV light on a dresser. In the 15yrs I had her she never bit anyone and was very docile with me but we kind of let her have free roam of our house. She did whip people she didn't know. The worst she ever did was climb up my back all the time and leave holes from her claws. Apparently I lucked out.

[@gunfumaster1024]

We had to give our pet iguana (had him since he was shorter than my forearm) to a reptile sanctuary because my brother and I were doing off to college and my mother couldn't lift him since he was getting big. When we brought him to the sanctuary, they were all shocked at how docile he was. Previous owners were terrified of him, he had a bent finger and one of his eyelids was fused together because he got too close to a heat lamp before we got him. Very aggressive at first but he was small enough that bites and scratches didn't bother me from trying to get him comfortable. Eventually he kind of bathroom trained himself (he only liked going to the bathroom in the overnight enclosure we built him), he was walking around our house along with our cats, we still miss him. Other people's iguanas make me realize how lucky I got. As much as I hate to admit it, I'll have to agree with Clint. Just because I had a great time with mine doesn't mean everyone should get one.

[@rustyshackelford4515]

My 2 iguana lived 17 and 18years and were the nicest animals.... they would walk around my house and chill... I raised them from hatchlings and they were always handled from birth. They were good pets.

[@kristopherganzel5245]

So I know I made the comment on your uromastyx video asking for a video on green iguanas (as well as Chinese water dragons and Tokay geckos) due to owning several myself. I'm not sure if this video was made as a result of that comment or if it was something you were already working on, but as an iguana lover/owner, I loved it and didn't take it personally at all! While I can say I wasn't expecting such a vehement... let's say "lack of recommendation", I do understand where you're coming from. Especially with the target audience this video series is meant for. In case it wasn't clear to any of the iguana owners getting offended by the video, if you're an experienced owner/breeder/rescuer, and KNOW how to handle iguanas, I'm pretty certain this video is not meant for you. I obviously can't speak for Clint, but I'm pretty certain this whole series is meant to provide information to beginner owners who are interested in purchasing lizards they know very little about. I think anyone who loves green iguanas can agree that FAR too many people end up getting one without knowing what they're getting into, which is pretty obvious considering just how many are constantly abandoned and surrendered to rescues/pet stores when they get too big, or get moody, etc. I've owned 7 over the years, and 4 of them were rescues (you could argue that 5 were, however, the fifth was just injured due to mistreatment by an employee at a PetCo, rather than being adopted from an accredited rescue.) One of those 4 was found abandoned in a tree in Manchester, New Hampshire, where it would've died to the elements if it weren't for someone with a keen eye. Another was severely malnourished and kept in a fish tank before being confiscated by Maine wildlife authorities, etc. Yet another was kept in a 40 gallon breeder tank when she's roughly 3 feet long and she was dragged around in a bearded dragon leash (half of her spikes were rope-burned off from the leash). They're all in a loving home now, and being properly cared for, however, if this video can prevent more sad stories like that from happening in the first place, I am all for it! Keep 'em coming, Clint! Although I do want to say, if you think green iguana personalities are this bad, I can't WAIT to see your video on Tokay geckos! xD

[@abbysullivan772]

Thanks for all the info! I’m definitely rethinking my decision on getting an iguana. I think I’m gonna go for more of the skink route 😂

[@ClintsReptiles]

A MUCH better route!!

[@kurint8350]

Abby Sullivan Seconding Clint on this one, as someone who's taken care of both species.

[@yaraal-shishtawy1910]

Lisa Hernandez maybe by not replying something totally irrelevant where you link to.. um.. naked pics?

[@teresatanasi5143]

Abby Sullivan Clint I LOVE the idea of WORST pet Reptile series.... I have tried for MANY years to speak to people about dog breeds,bird breeds( parrots especially... If you can afford it,does not mean you should get it) and chicken breeds.... This is a GREAT service. Please take heed!!! And yes,my tegu enclosure is ready:) Thanks to you!! I intend to get one that someone wants to rehome:) thanks soooo much!

[@teresatanasi5143]

Lisa Hernandez how about you go screw yourself rather than bother people here?

[@tullyDT]

I remember I was in a reptile shop once and someone came in asking about getting an iguana. The owner said "I'd sooner sell you a viper, I don't touch them, trust me it's not good for you or the iguana"

[@missyhoops305]

Was having a really long and bad day. I had to come watch this video. Cheers me up every time!!

[@timeshark8727]

I have had 2 green iguanas in my life. One was amazing. He was calm, gentle and easy to manage... though he did rip through a heavy duty screen once when he wanted to come out and tried to eat _EVERYTHING_ The second was a little brat that lunged at me, and anyone else who came near, and was a massive pain... but he was absolutely gorgeous to look at, beautiful blue/green with a flawless tail. don't get one... The first one was a rescue, I got him when he was around 2 ft long. He had severe calcium/nutrient deficiency, was constantly chilled and had never climbed on anything so his nails and feet were in rough shape. Oh, and his tail was lost when he was smaller, so between that and the bone disease it was kinked and brown. I think he ended up nice because I spent several months handling him multiple times every day in order to feed and treat him. Maybe he knew I had saved his life, who knows. He only lived with me for about 10 years, got to be about 6 ft long and weighed around 15 lbs. The other one I got from a pet shop when it was a baby after my good one died... and it was the devil.

[@crashingdown6814]

As someone who had green iguana for 20+ years, a puppy dog tame one who would die with out constant human contact, NO BODY SHOULD EVER GET ONE.

[@dantan1249]

not everyone wants a companion animal. its a wonder reptile breeders only breed for morphs and not behaviors. if you could actually get an iguana to act like a dog, theyd be quite valuable.

[@travissage5426]

Been watching Clint’s show for a few days and just realized he is about 20 minutes away from my home. I had no idea. I will definitely be visiting his reptile room. Love the show Clint!

[@kabbey44]

I truly appreciate your honesty! I guess I am very lucky to have had a wonderful iguana when I was child. I haven’t met many so because of my own experience I thought they were cool pets, even considered getting my family one so thank you for talking me out of that! I guess mine was special. She was over 3 feet when we rescued her and she was always mellow and just wanted to hang out. Even coexisted with our cat. Not all are bad! Who knows what she went through when she was younger though. Considering how much you adore the reptiles you usually talk about, I am definitely going to take your advice on this one!

[@Lonewolf-xt4ml]

Wow good thing I saw this just saved me a lot of headaches and money thanks Clint 👍

[@ClintsReptiles]

You're so welcome! That's why we make them.

[@letsnotmakethispersonal6021]

I have watched the opening 5 times now and still, the upbeat tone while being so negative cracks me up. But yes, terrible pets. The oldest scar I have (30+ years) is from one of those.

[@keithmulvaney2123]

Your polite disdain for this animal is commendable 😂

[@xato3796]

A friend of mine had a large male adult iguana that was bad tempered to most anyone but the owner and surprisingly myself. After watching this video I’m realizing how scary all the pictures and videos of me chilling on the couch with him sprawled out on my chest would be. It never bit it whipped the owner or myself but it would whip people that got too close to me too fast while I was holding him. Weirdly it was the best handling reptile I’ve ever held but I’m realizing how much of an anomaly he was and how rare of an experience I was able to have. He got regularly walked and would swim at the beach and lived a full and healthy life and I miss him greatly.

[@fenndoggett2977]

You might have just saved me a lot of time and money... Or I might just go for a Tegu

[@ClintsReptiles]

Great choice!

[@harley6793]

Honestly? Gus Gus has made the Argentine black and white tegu my dream lizard

[@philippborchardt5395]

This video needs to be shown in any pet store selling green iguanas worldwide. Thank you for the message and don't be afraid to tell the truth about some animals so that futur keeper are warned about them. Kind regards from France :)

[@curvingfyre6810]

We have a green iguana at my workplace (children's science museum) and he's actually very good. He won't seek you out, but he loves attention and pets when you come to him, kinda like a cat. As for handling, we just don't do it, beyond shifting him where we need him to be. He's never been a problem in any way, as far as I know despite, well, management not overseeing his care well. I'm a part time grunt worker who's shooting for a promotion to fix that (and all our animals). He's been my only experience with green iguanas and I'm very surprised that most are so much worse. He's actually more personable than our beaded dragon.

[@Oh6Torch]

I could not agree with you more. I’ve owned 3. They all took forever to tame. Once they neared maturity, it was, “...who the Hell are you???” We never trusted each other. I was always expecting to get whipped or bit. Definitely not a fun pet to invest time, money or mental consideration. Stay clear. Thanks for your honesty.