Black Spiny-tailed Iguana - Five Sisters Zoo

Black Spiny-tailed Iguanas have black scales on their tails and part of their body alongside a spiny ridge on their back, giving them a distinctive appearance and the source of their name. The rest of their body can be a mottled grouping of black, brown, green, and grey with their tail making up 2/3 of their total length.

Facts

Diet: Omnivore. Insects, flowers and leaves make up much of their diet when young, with adults consuming mostly plant matter.

Length: 1-1.3m

Weight: 2.5-4.5kg

Habitat: Central America; arid and rocky desert with significant sun-exposure, with access to hiding spaces to evade predators. Can also be found closer to human habitation if these conditions are met.

Life Span: 10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 under human care.

Adapted to Survive

Sharp spines on the back and tail defend against predators; very agile and able to quickly climb or run away from predators or to hunt for food.

Threats

Predation on eggs by predators; human encroachment

IUCN Conservation Status

Least Concern

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