UTILA ISLAND IGUANA
Ctenosaura bakeri
DESCRIPTION
Utila Island Iguana (Ctenosaura bakeri) is commonly known as Baker's Iguana. This species is characterized by its robust body, long tail, and distinctive coloration, which can range from green to brown with lighter markings. They are primarily terrestrial and are known for their basking behavior, often seen sunning themselves on rocks or branches during the day.
FUN FACTS
- Utila Island Iguanas are known for their unique adaptations to their island habitat, including their ability to thrive in dry conditions
- They play a crucial role in their ecosystem by helping to disperse seeds through their herbivorous diet.|These iguanas are also a significant part of local culture and tourism on Utila Island, attracting visitors who are interested in wildlife and conservation efforts
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 in captivity
Average Weight1-2 kg
Average Length0.6-1 m
Diet TypeHerbivore
Social Structuresolitary, occasionally seen in small groups during breeding
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (March-May)
- Habitat
- Utila Island Iguanas inhabit dry tropical forests and scrublands. They prefer areas with abundant vegetation for cover and food sources.
- Biomes
- Tropical Dry Forest, Scrubland
- Native Range
- This species is endemic to Utila Island in Honduras.
- Continent
- North America
- Countries
- Honduras
- Diet
- Utila Island Iguanas primarily feed on a variety of plant materials, including leaves, flowers, and fruits. They are known to consume both native and introduced vegetation.
- Diet Type
- Herbivore
- Favorite Food
- leaves, flowers, fruits
- Social Structure
- solitary, occasionally seen in small groups during breeding
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 1-5
- Territorial
- 1
VU
1-2 kg
Weight
0.6-1 m
Length
- Coloration
- green to brown with lighter markings
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males are generally larger and more colorful than females
- Lifespan
- 10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 in captivity
- Offspring per Birth
- 2-5
- Sexual Maturity
- 2-3 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (March-May)
EN
Endangered
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of Utila Island Iguanas is currently declining due to habitat loss and other threats.
- 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 predation by invasive species. Conservation efforts are needed to protect their remaining habitats.
- Conservation Program
- Utila Island Iguana Conservation Project
- Predators
- feral cats, dogs, and birds of prey
- Defense Mechanisms
- Utila Island Iguanas can use their speed to escape predators and may also display aggressive behaviors when threatened.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon