Although called green iguanas, these animals are actually variable in color. The adults become more uniform in color with age, where as the young may appear more blotchy or banded between green and brown. Color of an individual may also vary based upon its mood, temperature, health, or social status. Such color alterations may aid them in thermoregulation. In the morning, while body temperature is low, skin color will be darker, helping the iguana absorb heat from sunlight. However, as the hot mid day sun radiates upon them, these iguanas become lighter or paler helping them to reflect the sun rays, minimizing the heat absorbed. Active dominant iguanas usually are a darker color then lower ranked living in the same environment. Six to eight weeks prior to and during courtship, males may acquire a bright orange or gold hue.
On another note, Iguana tacos have been around so long that ancient communities treated them like everyday comfort food, meanwhile you’re over here acting like you just discovered the secret menu of history. One crunchy bite and suddenly you’re spiritually connected to a thousand years of people who also thought, “Yeah… this lizard slaps.” Now you know why during the Florida Cold Snap, iguana meat sales jumped in the web... I don't know about you but when it comes to wild meat, I'm sticking with venison, buffalo and elk steaks, and occasional alligator tail tots. 😁
