In Mesoamerica, the fabled dragon of the Maya and Aztecs looked like Green Iguana with a tail of a Rattlesnake. An impressive Lizard, Green Iguana’s prominent throat flap (dew flap) and tall crest of spines along his back give Him a menacing appearance. If cornered, Green Iguana will strike out with his saw-edged teeth and sharp claws. Because of his fierce attributes, the Maya and Aztecs called upon Him to help with keeping their family and personal honor in tact.
Common to the tropical forests of Central and South America, Green Iguana can usually be seen perching high on a tree branch over hanging a river. When danger threatens, this excellent diver will plunge into the water, and escape by swimming away. A sturdy Lizard, Green Iguana can fall long distances without getting hurt.
Living high in the tree canopy, Green Iguana has a basking spot, based on his size. The larger Iguanas have the prime basking spots, at the top of the trees. In sorting out their spots, Green Iguana tells Everyone what He is thinking with his head bobs. Slow bobbing lets the Others know that Green Iguana knows who is there and to inform them of his presence. Fast bobbing on the other hand means, “I AM QUITE IRRITATED WITH YOU.” However, Female Green Iguana will share her basking spot with other Female Iguanas.
Every day, Green Iguana has a comfortable routine that He follows. When the sun comes up, He wakes up. To get going, Green Iguana moves to a sunny branch to bask in. Late in the morning, He forages for food. Green Iguana feeds on a variety of leaves, flowers, and soft fruits. After eating, He finds another warm sunny place to bask, while his food digests. When evening comes, Green Iguana finds a safe place to settle down and goes to sleep.
Green Iguana has a satisfying routine of sun and sleep. He spends his day basking and eating. Happy and contented, Green Iguana stretches out his front legs and raise his head in the air. From Him, we can learn to appreciate our own ordinary lives.
Green (Common) Iguana’s Teachings Also Include:
“Iguana reminds us that it is important to live with integrity. Your word must be your bond, you must mean what you say and say what you mean.” Copyright – The Nahualli-Animal Oracle, Caelum Rainieri and Ivory Andersen.
Conservation Note: Green (Common) Iguana is endangered in the wild because of the pet trade. Belize and various countries of the West Indies have laws protecting Iguanas. However, feral Iguanas in the U.S. states of California and Florida have done much damage to the flora and fauna. Green Iguana is illegal to own in Hawai’i for the same reasons.
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Green Iguana Photo courtesy of WhoZoo.
Va. Carper
August 11, 2005