Green lizards, like the green anole and the green iguana, have specific dietary needs to keep them healthy and happy in captivity. These reptiles are primarily insectivores, but depending on their species, they may also consume some plant matter. Understanding what to feed your green lizard is essential for ensuring they get the right nutrients to thrive.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on what you can feed your green lizard, organized by their species and dietary preferences:

1. Green Anole (Anolis carolinensis)

The green anole, a small, vibrant lizard native to the southeastern United States, has a primarily insect-based diet but will occasionally eat some plant matter.

Insects to Feed a Green Anole:

• Crickets: Small crickets are a staple food for green anoles. They are high in protein and easy to find at most pet stores.
• Dubia Roaches: These roaches are a great source of protein and are easier to digest than some other roaches.
• Mealworms: These are high in fat and should be fed in moderation to avoid obesity.
• Waxworms: High in fat, these should only be fed occasionally as a treat.
• Grasshoppers: Another good option for a green anole, providing variety in their diet.

Vegetation (Occasional Treat):

• Leafy greens like kale, collard greens, and mustard greens.
• Fruits such as berries (blueberries, strawberries) or a small amount of mango.

Supplements:

• Dusting insects with calcium powder and vitamin D3 supplements will help ensure your green anole receives essential nutrients for bone health.

2. Green Iguana (Iguana iguana)

The green iguana is a much larger lizard, and unlike the green anole, it is primarily herbivorous. Their diet consists mostly of plant material, with occasional animal-based food (although it’s not essential).

Plant-Based Foods:

• Leafy greens: Kale, collard greens, turnip greens, and mustard greens are all excellent choices. Avoid iceberg lettuce, as it lacks nutrients.
• Herbs: Parsley, cilantro, and dandelion greens are good for variety.
• Fruits: A variety of fruits can be offered, including berries, melons, papaya, and bananas. Fruit should be fed in moderation due to its sugar content.
• Flowers: Hibiscus flowers, dandelions, and other safe, non-toxic flowers are a treat for your iguana.

Occasional Animal Protein:

• Green iguanas are mostly herbivores, but occasional consumption of animal-based protein, like small insects (crickets or worms), is fine in small quantities. Avoid feeding them meat, as it can be difficult for them to digest.

Supplements:

• Like the green anole, calcium and vitamin D3 supplements are crucial for a green iguana’s diet to prevent metabolic bone disease.
• A multivitamin supplement is also recommended every other day.

3. Other Green Lizard Species

For other species of green lizards (such as veiled chameleons and green basilisks), the diet can vary widely, but the basic principles of insectivory, combined with occasional plant-based foods, apply.

Insects:

• Crickets, locusts, mealworms, superworms, and fruit flies are common options for feeding green lizards that are primarily insectivores.
• Small roaches (like Dubia roaches) can provide high nutritional value.

Plant Matter:

• Many green lizards, like chameleons, will also enjoy leafy greens like collard greens, kale, and spinach. Some species, like the basilisk, will enjoy occasional fruits like apples, pears, and grapes.

Additional Tips for Feeding Green Lizards

1. Variety is Key: Just like humans, green lizards enjoy variety in their diet. Offer a mix of insects and plant matter to provide a balanced range of nutrients.
2. Feeding Frequency:
   • Green Anoles: Feed them every day with a variety of small insects.
   • Green Iguanas: Feed them once or twice a day with leafy greens and fruits, ensuring their diet is primarily plant-based.
3. Water: Provide fresh, clean water daily. Some green lizards prefer drinking from water droplets on leaves or rocks, while others may drink from a shallow dish. Ensure your lizard stays hydrated.
4. Avoid Toxic Foods: Never feed your lizard foods that are toxic to them, such as onions, garlic, avocados, and chocolate.
5. Gut Loading: Before feeding insects to your green lizard, consider gut-loading them by feeding the insects nutritious foods for 24-48 hours. This ensures your lizard is getting the best possible nutrition from the insects.

Conclusion

Feeding your green lizard the right diet is essential to keeping it healthy and happy. Whether you have a green anole, green iguana, or another species, understanding their dietary needs and offering a variety of appropriate foods will help them thrive in captivity. Remember to provide fresh water, use supplements when necessary, and keep their diet balanced between insects and plant material. By meeting these needs, your green lizard will enjoy a long and healthy life.