• Submitted by: admin
• Environment
• 04 / 05 / 2010

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Iguanas are prehistoric animals. Once you see one you know they are a very ancient species.

They are thick skinned reptiles, their backs covered in scales in the shape of an armored crest.

Their habitats are coastal areas of the planet’s tropical and subtropical zones.  A combination of sand and rock is ideal for them, for they shelter themselves in tunnels that they dig --12 to 20 centimeters wide, about 310 long and 12 high.

According to scientists, the “true” one is the green iguana (iguana iguana).  In the Caribbean it is present in several countries, from Mexico to Central America and Colombia, as well as in the Lesser Antilles.  In the Greater Antilles, of which Cuba is part, there is a smaller subspecies, Cyclura nubila.

There is also the blue iguana of Grand Cayman (Cyclura nubila lewisi). In Bahamas, Jamaica, Turk Islands and others, subspecies of Cyclura have also been reported.

The iguana can climb trees looking for food, but Cyclura nubile of the Greater Antilles prefers solid ground.  Its body, like all reptiles, depends on surface temperature to regulate its own.

They are also great swimmers and migrate from one island to another through their own effort.  They have good hearing and a better vision.

Iguanas can be seen in Central Cuba at Cayo Largo del Sur (South Key Largo), Cayo Iguana, and Coco, Guillermo, Romano and Santa María Keys.  In West Cuba at Guanahacabibes Peninsula National Marine and Coastal Park, and in other rocky and less populated north coast of the island.

Although iguanas are not aggressive, if bothered it can whip-tail, bite or claw its attackers. Certainly good natured visitors will respect the space that this so special creature has earned for itself in nature.

By  Marta Gómez

Source: Sol y Son