Iggie the Iguana Makes a New Home at Dolphin Encounters
BLUE LAGOON ISLAND
Iggy
Iggie is a green iguana, which are herbivores (vegetarians) that can grow up to 5 or 6 feet and weigh 17 to 25 pounds.
Green Iguanas are among the most popular reptile pets in the United States, despite being quite difficult to care for properly. In fact, most captive iguanas die within the first
year, and many are either turned loose by their owners or given to reptile rescue groups.
Iggie was most likely a former pet or offspring of a pet released into the wild in Florida. He arrived as an illegal immigrant to the Bahamas, accidently finding his way here in a supply container. As an invasive species, he cannot be released into the wild. Ardastra Zoo & Gardens provided him with a temporary home and he now lives permanently here
on Blue Lagoon. With time & training, Iggie will learn how to be handled and help
teach kids the importance of protecting our wildlife, including Iggie’s cousins — the threatened native Rock Iguanas of the Bahamas.
The green iguanas spend most of their lives in the canopy, descending only infrequently to mate, lay eggs, or change trees. Strictly vegetarians, iguanas are active during the day and feed on leaves, flowers, and fruit. They generally live near water and are excellent swimmers. If threatened, they will leap from a branch, often from great heights as much as 40 feet, and escape with a splash to the water below or even on to solid ground!
They can also detach their tails if caught by a predator and will grow another without
permanent damage.
Iggie is very popular and visitors to Dolphin Encounters on Blue Lagoon Island marvel at his unique colour and physique. Be sure to visit him near the Sea Lion habitat.
