Rhinoceros iguana

Description

Its generic name Ciclura is derived from Latin and references its rounded tail; and its specific name cornuta refers to the three horns on the upper section of the snout, giving it the appearance of a rhinoceros. The back of the body is covered by scales which resemble spines, from the neck to the tail. Their colours vary from dark grey to brown and dark green. The heads of the males appear enormous due to the great development of their jaw muscles and their jowls.

Ethology

They are diurnal animals and spend nights in rocky dens, crevices or caves. They are land-based, but can climb trees in search of food. The females lay 11 eggs, which take 170 days to hatch. Males are very territorial.

Interesting Facts

The most aggressive of iguanas, able to attack humans. When they are threatened they raise their legs to their neck or defend themselves delivering violent blows with their necks.Their main predators are snakes, mongooses and cats, but their main threat is the destruction of their habitat by deforestation, pollution and fire. Several projects for reintroducing them to their habitat have been successful.