UTILA IGUANA
Brachylophus maninotis
DESCRIPTION
The Utila Iguana, or Brachylophus maninotis, is a large, robust lizard native to Utila Island in Honduras. It has a distinctive appearance with a predominantly green coloration, often featuring darker bands and a spiny crest along its back. This species is known for its arboreal behavior, spending much of its time in trees, and is an important part of the island's ecosystem, contributing to seed dispersal and plant growth.
FUN FACTS
- Utila Iguanas are known for their unique coloration, which can vary significantly among individuals, making them a fascinating subject for herpetologists
- | They are also an important cultural symbol for the people of Utila, often featured in local art and folklore, highlighting their significance beyond just ecological roles
QUICK INFO
Lifespanup to 20 years in the wild
Average Weight1-2 kg
Average Length0.6-1 m
Diet TypeHerbivore
Social Structuresolitary, occasionally seen in pairs
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (March-May)
- Habitat
- Utila Iguanas inhabit tropical dry forests and coastal mangroves, often found in areas with abundant vegetation. They prefer habitats that provide ample cover and food sources.
- Biomes
- Tropical Dry Forest, Coastal Mangrove
- Native Range
- Endemic to Utila Island, Honduras
- Continent
- North America
- Countries
- Honduras
- Diet
- Utila Iguanas are primarily herbivorous, feeding on a variety of leaves, fruits, and flowers. They play a crucial role in their habitat by aiding in the growth of vegetation through their feeding habits.
- Diet Type
- Herbivore
- Favorite Food
- leaves, fruits, flowers
- Social Structure
- solitary, occasionally seen in pairs
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-2
- Territorial
- 0
VU
1-2 kg
Weight
0.6-1 m
Length
- Coloration
- primarily green with darker bands
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males are generally larger than females
- Lifespan
- up to 20 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 1-5
- Sexual Maturity
- 3-4 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (March-May)
EN
Endangered
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Utila Iguanas is currently declining due to habitat loss and hunting.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 1,000-5,000
- Population Trend
- Decreasing
- Endangered
- 1
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat destruction due to development and agriculture, as well as hunting for the pet trade. These factors have significantly impacted their population numbers.
- Conservation Program
- Conservation efforts are underway, including habitat protection and breeding programs.
- Predators
- Birds of prey, feral cats, and invasive species such as rats.
- Defense Mechanisms
- Utila Iguanas can use their strong limbs to climb quickly into trees to escape predators, and they may also display aggressive postures.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon