How Fast Do Green Iguanas Run?

Pip, our green iguana, is going for a stroll in the backyard. He can move pretty quickly if he wants to, which begs the question, how fast can they actually run?

An adult green iguana (Iguana iguana) can run at speeds of approximately 20-25 miles per hour (32-40 kilometers per hour) over short distances. However, this high speed is typically achieved when the iguana is startled or feels threatened, and it will sprint to escape predators or danger.

Their strong limbs and claws help them grip surfaces effectively, which aids in their speed both on the ground and in climbing trees. For sustained movement, their speed decreases, as they are more built for bursts of energy rather than endurance running.