In recent years, many people have opted not to have children and instead choose to keep pets. The appeal of furry animals is undeniable, as they provide therapeutic companionship. However, some pet owners have more unusual preferences, favoring reptiles like snakes and lizards. This trend is becoming increasingly popular.
Recently, a Japanese netizen shared an intriguing experience on a social media platform. The owner of a pet female green iguana discovered that it had laid a clutch of eggs. Curious, the owner decided to cook and taste a few of the eggs. This was not a typical culinary adventure involving chicken or duck eggs but rather iguana eggs.
The original poster (OP) admitted that the eggs they consumed were likely unfertilized, as they did not hatch even when left alone or incubated. Not wanting to waste them, the OP decided to eat the eggs. To address potential backlash from animal rights activists, the OP noted that female iguanas, like chickens, can lay eggs without mating. Before consuming the eggs, the OP researched extensively to ensure they were not committing any wrongdoing.
To satisfy the curiosity of fellow netizens, the OP shared the entire cooking process and their thoughts on the experience. They described the eggs as having a unique shape but a rather ordinary smell. Before cooking, the eggs were soft, but they hardened afterward. The "shell" was more like a membrane, which was removed before eating. The OP found the taste of the eggs to be bland, neither unpleasant nor particularly enjoyable. The texture was likened to chewing on an eraser or a rubber ball, which was somewhat peculiar. The texture would break down in the mouth after a few bites.
The OP experimented with different condiments, such as mayonnaise with pepper or olive oil with pepper, but found little difference in taste. Finally, the OP appealed to others for better cooking methods, as they still had many eggs left over. After all, these eggs were laid by their beloved pet, and it seemed wasteful to discard them.
The Edibility of Iguana Eggs in Taiwan
In Taiwan, the question arises whether iguana eggs are safe for consumption. According to a report by the Central News Agency, Dr. Chen Tian-xi, an associate professor at the National Pingtung University of Science and Technology's Institute of Wildlife Conservation, noted that green iguanas are consumed in their native habitats, often found in clean lakes and rivers. However, in invaded regions like the U.S. and Puerto Rico, attempts to sell iguana meat and eggs have been met with failed food inspections.
Dr. Chen warned that in Taiwan, green iguanas often inhabit drainage systems and ditches, which are frequently contaminated with agricultural or industrial wastewater. This raises concerns about parasites and pollution. Therefore, Dr. Chen advises against consuming green iguana eggs in Taiwan.
