GRAND CAYMAN BLUE IGUANA
Cyclura lewisi
DESCRIPTION
The Grand Cayman Blue Iguana is a large, robust lizard native to the Grand Cayman Island. It is known for its striking blue coloration and is one of the largest iguana species, reaching significant lengths.
FUN FACTS
- The Grand Cayman Blue Iguana is the largest native land animal on Grand Cayman | They can live for over 20 years in captivity | Their vibrant blue color is most pronounced in males during the breeding season
QUICK INFO
Lifespan20-25 years in the wild, up to 30 in captivity
Average Weight4-5 kg
Average Length1.2-1.5 m
Diet TypeHerbivore
Social Structuresolitary, occasionally seen in small groups
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (April-June)
- Habitat
- The Grand Cayman Blue Iguana inhabits dry forest and shrubland areas. It prefers rocky outcrops and areas with abundant vegetation for shelter and food.
- Biomes
- Tropical Dry Forest
- Native Range
- Endemic to Grand Cayman Island in the Caribbean.
- Continent
- North America
- Countries
- Cayman Islands
- Diet
- This species primarily feeds on a variety of plant materials, including leaves, flowers, and fruits. They may occasionally consume insects.
- Diet Type
- Herbivore
- Favorite Food
- leaves, flowers, fruits
- Social Structure
- solitary, occasionally seen in small groups
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-5
- Territorial
- 1
LC
4-5 kg
Weight
1.2-1.5 m
Length
- Coloration
- vibrant blue with darker markings
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males are larger and more colorful than females
- Lifespan
- 20-25 years in the wild, up to 30 in captivity
- Offspring per Birth
- 2-30
- Sexual Maturity
- 3-4 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (April-June)
CR
Critically Endangered
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population has been recovering due to conservation efforts but remains vulnerable.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 1,000-2,000
- Population Trend
- Increasing
- Endangered
- 1
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat loss due to development and predation by invasive species such as cats and dogs.
- Conservation Program
- The Blue Iguana Recovery Program has been instrumental in increasing their population.
- Predators
- feral cats, dogs, and rats
- Defense Mechanisms
- They can run quickly and use their strong tails for defense.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon