Spiny tailed Iguana

Description
Striped iguanas have a robust and very muscular body. Their limbs are also very muscular and end in enormous claws. Adults are greenish-grey with black stripes on the back, and dark rings on the tail, while older specimens turn reddish in colour. Males have a 1.5 cm high crest that runs along the back from the end of the head to the beginning of the tail.

Behaviour
They are social and territorial animals that live in colonies. They are active during the day. Although primarily terrestrial, these iguanas are excellent climbers. They are fast-moving creatures that use their speed to escape predators, but will lash with their tails and bite if cornered. In the breeding season, males show dominance and interest by bobbing their heads and may chase the female until they can catch her. The female will lay a clutch of up to 30 eggs, which hatch 90 days later.

Interesting Facts
This species is consumed locally and sold in markets throughout Mexico and Central America, where it is believed to have medicinal value. It is the fastest lizard on earth and can reach up to 35 km/h.