Iguanas can hear you! Although they don’t have external ears like we do, they have a specialized hearing mechanism that allows them to detect sounds. The eardrum, also known as the tympanic membrane, is clearly visible on both sides of an iguana’s head, just behind their eyes. It is continuous with the skin surface and enables them to pick up on auditory cues in their environment.
While the exact range of frequencies that iguanas can hear is not well studied, they are known to have good hearing abilities. They can perceive sounds at different frequencies and volumes, and are particularly sensitive to low-frequency sounds. This is because they use vibrations in the ground and air to detect potential threats or communicate with other iguanas.
In my personal experience with iguanas, I have observed that they do respond to sound. When I approach my pet iguana’s enclosure and speak to him, he often turns his head or moves towards the sound of my voice. This suggests that he recognizes and is aware of my presence.
It’s important to note that while iguanas can hear well, their response to sound may vary depending on their individual personality and environment. Some may be more alert and responsive to sounds, while others may be more reserved. Additionally, sudden loud noises or prolonged exposure to high volumes can be stressful for them, so it’s important to create a calm and quiet environment for your pet iguana.
To summarize, iguanas can indeed hear you. Their eardrums, though not externally visible, allow them to detect and respond to sounds in their surroundings. Their hearing capabilities, like their vision, play a crucial role in their interaction with their owners and the environment.