Description:
Scientific name: Cyclura lewisi
Life span: 25-40 years
The Grand Cayman ground iguana, sometimes known as the blue iguana, is an endangered species of lizard. It has a huge, hefty body with a dorsal crest of short spines that extends from the neck’s base to the tail’s tip. Its unique black feet contrast with the lighter color of its body.
Native Region/Habitat
The blue iguana is native to the island of Grand Cayman and is present all around the island, with the exception of Bodden Town, Seven Mile Beach, Gun Bay, and West Bay, which are all populated areas. Only the island of Grand Cayman is home to the blue iguana. It was driven out of its coastal habitat by habitations and the building of roadways.
Behavior:
They are known for being active during the day and typically take pleasure in resting all night long. They enjoy resting in both rock crevices and tree cavities. Although they are terrestrial, these lizards prefer to stay on the ground, yet they can climb trees up to 15 feet in height.
Care As a pet/In captivity:
Housing: Best is a wire enclosure. You will need to build this enclosure yourself using untreated wood because reptiles may not be able to tolerate the chemicals. Because lizards are reasonably adept climbers, the cage must be completely enclosed to help keep them safe from predators and prevent them from escaping.
It should be 12 feet long, 6 feet wide, and 6 feet high. One can build shelving that doubles as a platform for sunbathing. These racks ought to be reachable.
Temperatures: Both adults and adolescents should be able to bask in temperatures of at least 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Up to six heating lamps might be required to reach this temperatures.
Maintaining a temperature gradient is necessary. Installing heat lamps at one end of the enclosure will do this. Low 80s Fahrenheit should be the temperature at the cool end of the enclosure.
Humidity: The species doesn’t need a lot of humidity because they are naturally found in xerophytic shrublands and dry woodlands. Always keep a water bowl inside the enclosure. You might need to spray juveniles from time to time.
Feeding: Typically, these lizards eat only plants. They welcome a huge range of plants. Offering leafy greens like romaine lettuce, dandelion blossoms and greens, collard greens, and veggies like yellow squash and green beans is something I advise. Give fruits, spinach, and kale once a week at most.
Table
