Casque-Headed iguana

Helmeted Iguana (AKA Forest Chameleon)
Corytophanes cristatus
Also: C. hernandezi , C. percarinatus

Physical Characteristics
Grows to 14″ (34 cm) [Wynne: 12-16″], it has a slender, laterally compressed body with long limbs, and the typical iguanid toes. The tail is up to twice the snout-vent length (svl). A bilateral occipital crest, culminating in a tall helmet (casque) on nape of neck, is followed by a short dorsal crest running the length of the body. When excited, the occipital crest and a small, serrated gular pouch is extended. Scalation is a mixture of granular and roughened; ventral and lower caudal scales strongly keeled. Coloration is ranges from rich browns to olive and gray, with lighter and darker markings.

Males are differentiated from females by their larger helmet. When kept together by themselves, males may be quarrelsome.

Habitat
This arboreal iguanid ranges from southern Mexico through Central America to northeastern Columbia in the tropical rainforests. Generally found in the lower branches of trees or in bushes.

Diet
Feeds on arthropods, spiders, pinks and fuzzies, lizards, earthworms. Supplement with vitamins and calcium.

Reproduction
Breeding and egg production apparently occurs throughout the year. Females lay 6-11 eggs per clutch in moist earth or humus. Hatchlings are 3-4″.

Captive Care
The care of the helmeted iguana is similar to the care requirements of the basiliscus, except that the iguana is not restricted to water. They require a spacious enclosure furnished with strong plants and branches.

Water should be provided in a bowl and by spray. Humidity can be maintained by gently heating the water bowl.

Temperature ranges from 80-90F (27-32C) [Wynne: 75-85F] provided by radiant heat. Night temperatures should not fall below 68F (20C).

Occasional ultraviolet light is acceptable.

Sources
Wynne, Richard. 1981. Lizards in Captivity. TFH Publications Inc., Ltd. Neptune NJ. 189p