A number of iguana pet books have been written in recent years, but still only one addresses the complete needs of these big green "Green Iguana—The Ultimate Owner's Manual" by James W. Hatfield III. This comprehensive yet highly readable book is just what its name the ULTIMATE book on green iguanas. In 650+ pages of clear, lively, compelling and accurate text, the author presents the most current, scientific and useful information available about iguanas. This new Second Edition introduces important medical black-and-white photos from internationally known veterinarian Scott Stahl, plus new photos in the color section. And to make sure more iguana owners have access to the ULTIMATE iguana book, the retail price was reduced. No other pet care book on any animal offers this level of commitment to its readers. "Green Iguana—The Ultimate Owner's Manual," the culmination of over 10 years of research, weighs in at more than 2 1/2 pounds and is the largest, most comprehensive, scientifically accurate, up-to-date, helpful, fun, easy-to-read iguana pet care book ever written. And with the book's clear, accessible layout, you can quickly find whatever information you need. The book’s nine chapters and ten appendixes cover everything from birth to death of an iguana. "Green Iguana—The Ultimate Owner’s Manual" also ° 24 pages of color photos ° 16 black-and-white photos, including exclusive iguana skeleton photos ° 9 iguana medical photos from a world-renowned veterinarian ° more than 30 detailed scientific illustrations, drawings, charts, diagrams, and tables ° hundreds of quotes from iguana owners, veterinarians, scientific researchers, and others, spread throughout the book to emphasize important points. Recommended by iguana owners, veterinarians, pet stores, the ASPCA and others.
I had no intention of buying this book or owning an Iguana for that matter; however, I had the unfortunate experience a couple years ago of renting a room with horrible roommates. After much fighting and arguing and ducking the rent the landlord and I were able to get them forceably evicted. While going through their room nobody ever saw we discovered they had a green iguana, I took over as owner and named my iguana "Carlton Iguana Esquire." Lots of love, building a proper shelter, and many hundreds of dollars later I can say the little guy is happy and healthy and a true part of my family.
I can only join in the many other reviews that highly recommend this book. It has everything you need to know about keeping iguanas, including great advice on the "Ultimate Substrate" that I am using now. Combined with information from the Green Iguana Society I can't imagine that any question about pet iguanas would go unanswered. Just as important it shows these animals as having the potential to become friendly and endearing pets with a real personality. So if you are thinking about getting an iguana read this book, preferably before you acquire one. This book walks you through every stage of an iguanas life, these reptiles require much care but everything you will ever need to know about them is in this book from feeding, housing, their anatomy, temperaments, medical issues, breeding and even taming! Not only that but it's very entertaining to read. I love the author's humor and the conversational writing style.