EXUMA ISLAND IGUANA
Cyclura cychlura
DESCRIPTION
The Exuma Island Iguana, also known as the Cyclura cychlura, is a large, robust lizard characterized by its distinctive greenish-gray coloration and spiny crest along its back. These iguanas are primarily terrestrial and are known for their strong limbs and long tails, which they use for balance and navigation in their rocky habitats. They exhibit a calm demeanor but can become aggressive if threatened, displaying their impressive size and strength to deter potential predators.
FUN FACTS
- The Exuma Island Iguana is known for its unique ability to swim, which is quite rare among iguanas
- They often take to the water to escape predators or to find food on nearby islands
- | These iguanas play a crucial role in their ecosystem by helping to disperse seeds through their diet, contributing to the health of their native plant communities
QUICK INFO
Lifespanup to 20 years in the wild, longer in captivity
Average Weight3-4 kg
Average Length1-1.5 m
Diet TypeHerbivore
Social Structuresolitary, occasionally seen in small groups
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (April-June)
- Habitat
- These iguanas inhabit dry, rocky areas and scrub forests, often found in coastal regions with access to vegetation. They prefer habitats that provide ample cover and basking sites.
- Biomes
- Tropical Dry Forest, Coastal
- Native Range
- The Exuma Island Iguana is native to the Exuma Cays in the Bahamas.
- Continent
- North America
- Countries
- Bahamas
- Diet
- Exuma Island Iguanas are primarily herbivorous, feeding on a variety of plant materials including leaves, fruits, and flowers. They have been observed consuming some insects and small invertebrates occasionally.
- Diet Type
- Herbivore
- Favorite Food
- leaves, fruits, flowers
- Social Structure
- solitary, occasionally seen in small groups
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-5
- Territorial
- 1
LC
VU
3-4 kg
Weight
1-1.5 m
Length
- Coloration
- greenish-gray with a spiny crest
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males are generally larger and more robust than females
- Lifespan
- up to 20 years in the wild, longer in captivity
- Offspring per Birth
- 2-30
- Sexual Maturity
- 3-4 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (April-June)
EN
Endangered
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Exuma Island Iguanas is currently declining due to habitat loss and predation.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 1,000-5,000
- Population Trend
- Decreasing
- Endangered
- 1
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to development and predation by introduced species such as cats and rats. Conservation efforts are needed to protect their natural habitats and reduce human impact.
- Conservation Program
- Conservation programs are in place to protect their habitats and manage invasive species.
- Predators
- cats, rats, birds of prey
- Defense Mechanisms
- They can run quickly and use their strong tails to defend themselves against predators.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon