Tallest Iguana
World’s Tallest Iguana: Known for their colorful colors and dragon-like faces, Iguanas are generally harmless to humans. However, they can be a nuisance in homes, as they can often hide under furniture or in other objects. These creatures are classified into genera based on their length from the tip of their heads to the tip of their tails.
Galapagos land iguana: World’s Tallest Iguana
| Height | 91.8 cm – 107 cm | ||
|---|---|---|---|
The Galapagos land iguanas are among the world’s largest lizards, growing up to three feet long and weighing up to 30 pounds. They are herbivores and mostly eat prickly pear cactus, insects, and dead animal matter. They can live up to 50 years and reach sexual maturity at eight to 15 years of age.
Unfortunately, they’re also one of the world’s most endangered species. In the past, their population was decimated by feral pigs, which were introduced to the islands by mariners and settlers during the 1800s. Feral pigs feast on the young and eggs, and eventually wiped out the entire population. However, since 2004 the Galapagos Islands have been declared pig-free, thanks to the conservation efforts of Project Isabela.
Cuban rock iguana: World’s Tallest Iguana
| Size | 4 – 5 feet | ||
|---|---|---|---|
The Cuban Rock Iguana is the tallest land reptile in the world. It can leap from great heights into the water, and is a good swimmer. It also uses its tail to propel itself through the water. Its diet consists mostly of plant matter and insects. Juveniles tend to eat more insects, but they switch to a more herbivorous diet as they mature. It can also hold its breath for several minutes.
The Cuban Rock Iguana is a very peaceful creature, and is tame enough to be handled. It’s not a good idea to try to handle it unnecessarily, however. Iguana bites can be painful and can transmit a lot of germs. They also have long claws and a powerful tail stroke, and should only be approached by a knowledgeable trainer.
Mexican spiny-tailed iguana
| Size | (46 cm) | ||
|---|---|---|---|
The Mexican spiny-tailed iguana is a rare species of iguana. The species is endemic to Mexico and Central America. They are omnivorous and live in dry forests.
Mexican spiny-tailed iguanas grow to about 140 cm in length. The females are smaller than males. The spines on their tails serve as a form of defense. They prefer rocky habitats with crevices for hiding and are most active during the day.
Despite their size, Mexican spiny-tailed iguas aren’t dangerous. They rarely bite and only do so in self-defense. They usually give warning signs before biting to avoid danger.
Melanesian land iguana
The Melanesian land iguana has a name of subcristatus, derived from the Latin words sub meaning “lesser” and cristatus meaning “crested”. This name refers to the low crest of spines on the back of the animal. While taller than most iguanas, it is not the tallest iguana.
This species is native to the tropics and subtropics of the Americas. Its habitat includes subtropical and tropical forests; dry forests; and coastal areas. It is also widely cultivated and is found in South Florida.
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