Can Cold Temperatures Kill Iguanas?
Iguanas are tropical reptiles that depend on external heat to regulate their body temperature. When temperatures drop below about 40°F (4°C), their metabolism slows drastically. Prolonged exposure to cold can lead to immobility, organ failure, and death, especially in young or unhealthy animals.
What Happens to an Iguana in the Cold?
In cold conditions, iguanas become sluggish and may fall from trees. Their heart rate and breathing slow, and they can lose the ability to right themselves. If temperatures remain low for hours, they may suffer hypothermia, frostbite, or fatal shock.
How to Protect Iguanas from Cold Stress
Keep pet iguanas in enclosures with reliable heat lamps, ceramic heaters, and thermostats. Provide a basking spot above 90°F (32°C) and maintain ambient temperatures above 75°F (24°C) at night. Bring outdoor iguanas indoors during cold snaps, and monitor weather forecasts closely.
For more details on reptile cold tolerance, see the University of Florida's extension guide on iguana care.
