Cayman Islands Holidays - Blue Iguana

The largest native land animal left in the Cayman Islands is the Blue Iguana

. Known locally as the Blues', they can be found at the Queen Elizabeth 11 Botanic Park, in Frank Sound, Grand Cayman.

The Blue Iguana is an endangered species, and is a major concern of the National Trust's conservation programme. The aim of this programme is to increase the population of these wonderful creatures. The target is set at one thousand, all living in protected areas without any assistance from man. Part of preparing the protected areas is by the removal or maintenance of every non-native species which may hinder the well being of the iguanas.

This programme also has a commercial upside for the local population, which an increase of tourists longing to see these little dinosaurs. The extra revenue from the tourists will help to fund the conservation scheme.

Adult female Blue Iguanas live solitary lives, not far from their rock hole. Other adult females are not allowed near. If vigorous head-bobbing doesn't work, she will attack the intruder. The males often have several alternative sleeping holes.

Males live a lazy life during the non breeding season (late summer end of winter), sleeping a lot, eating a lot, and sun bathing, and just watching the females going by.

In spring the pace of life changes. Males fight for dominance over as many female territories as possible. Fights can be vicious and bloody affairs, with toes, tail tips, crest spines and chunks of skin torn off. The females still keep out of the way until they are ready, usually in late April. Most mating is completed by the first two weeks of May. About six weeks after mating, the eggs are laid. The female uses the same nest each year.

The embryos take around 65 to 100 days or more to hatch. The babies dig their way to the surface then they scatter for cover. From then on, each one is on its own.

To see a Blue Iguana while holidaying in Grand Cayman be sure to visit the Queen Elizabeth 11 Botanic Park. Visit their website http://www.botanic-park.ky for more information.

Cayman Islands Holidays - Blue Iguana

By: John Guinn

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