In this blog post, Daniel, a seasonal keeper in Herpetology at Zoo Atlanta, discusses the endangered status of two iguana species, the San Salvador iguana and the Grand Cayman blue iguana. He explains the various threats these species face, including predation and habitat loss, and the efforts being made to protect them. While the Grand Cayman blue iguana has seen a successful recovery due to significant conservation efforts, the San Salvador iguana remains in serious jeopardy due to funding limitations. Daniel also encourages readers to visit Zoo Atlanta to meet their closely related Jamaican iguanas and learn more about the importance of conservation efforts.
Iguanas: A Fascinating Creature at Zoo Atlanta
Iguanas, the cold-blooded reptiles, are captivating creatures that have become increasingly popular as pets over the years. These fascinating creatures can be found at Zoo Atlanta where you can learn more about them and their incredible adaptations while observing them in their natural habitats.
Classification and Habitat
Iguanas belong to the family of lizards known as Iguanidae. They have a long tail, a crest of spines running from the head to the tail, and dewlaps (flap of skin) on the throat. They come in a variety of colors such as green, gray, and brown, and are found in different habitats such as rainforests, deserts, and coastlines. In Zoo Atlanta, green iguanas and Galapagos iguanas are commonly seen.
Diet and Behavior
Iguanas are herbivorous and feed mostly on leaves, flowers, and fruits. They are also known to eat insects and small mammals on occasion. At Zoo Atlanta, they are fed a balanced diet which includes lettuce, collard greens, and other vegetables. They are active during the day and prefer to bask in the sun to regulate their body temperature.
Reproduction
Iguanas are oviparous, which means they lay eggs. Female iguanas lay a clutch of 20 to 70 eggs, which they bury in the soil. After around three months, the eggs hatch and baby iguanas emerge.
Conservation
Some iguana species, such as the Galapagos and Fiji iguanas, are listed as endangered due to habitat destruction and hunting. Zoo Atlanta has been actively involved in the conservation efforts of these endangered species. In 2017, a hatchling Galapagos iguana was successfully hatched in the zoo, further contributing to the conservation efforts.
Conclusion
Iguanas are captivating creatures that have adapted to various habitats, and their interesting behaviors and dietary preferences make them fascinating animals to observe. Zoo Atlanta provides a safe environment for these creatures, and they are also involved in conservation efforts to protect the endangered species. If you are interested in learning more about iguanas and their adaptations, plan a visit to the zoo and see these amazing creatures in action!
