Iguanas are among the most fascinating reptiles in the world. They can live for 20 or more years in captivity. They possess unique evolutionary features, such as a third eye that allows them to detect subtle changes in light. They also have detachable tails that can break off, allowing them to escape from potential predators. However, among all the unique survival skills of iguanas, skin shedding may be the most satisfying to watch. A video posted by Michell Lee, the pet parent of Instagram’s famous Rocket the Iguana, proves just how enjoyable skin-shedding is for both iguanas and their owners.
Why Iguanas Need to Shed Their Skin
Mitchell Lee explains that iguanas never actually stop shedding. Juvenile iguanas shed more frequently, while adults typically shed every few weeks. This ongoing process is essential for their overall health and survival. As iguanas grow, they outgrow their skin. The skin they are born with does not expand as they do, so it must shed and regenerate to accommodate their increasing size. The process, known as ecdysis, is painless and occurs continuously throughout the animal’s life.
Iguanas don’t just shed once; shedding is a continuous process throughout their lives.
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Iguanas naturally produce a lubricant that helps them shed old skin, but owners can assist with the process if needed. Domesticated iguanas sometimes require assistance to shed their old skin, as seen in the video by Mitchell Lee. Old skin can be itchy and irritating for an iguana. If the skin comes off easily with a slight tug, it is likely ready to shed on its own. If not, it will probably be ready to fall off in a few days. Mitchell Lee mentions that he keeps the humidity in his house at optimal levels for Rocket, which is helpful for shedding.
The Benefits of Skin Shedding
When iguanas shed, the process occurs in patches. Instead of shedding all at once, certain parts of their body shed before others. This is partly why it’s so satisfying to help them rid themselves of their old skin — it’s incredible to see the brand-new skin underneath! For Rocket, a gentle tug revealed new, shiny skin beneath a dry, patchy piece of dead skin.. Watching the process is quite satisfying, and it also helps prevent the reptile from developing infections or harboring harmful bacteria.
Peeling off dead skin can help an iguana shed large pieces of old skin.
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Old skin that does not shed properly can be uncomfortable and irritating for the iguana. It can also restrict growth, as the old skin becomes constrictive. Shedding old skin also promotes healthy circulation. Without proper circulation, tissue death can occur. Maintaining appropriate temperature and humidity levels in the enclosure, monitoring the iguana’s shedding patches, and observing the new skin are all essential aspects of reptile care.
