Best Months to Spot
Most sightings recorded in Jan, Mar, May, Jun, Aug, Dec. Data from GBIF - a global database of verified wildlife observations by researchers and citizen scientists.
Conservation Status
Conservation hubFaces a high risk of extinction in the wild.
Marine iguanas face threats from introduced predators like cats and dogs, as well as climate change impacting their food sources and breeding success. Conservation efforts focus on controlling invasive species and monitoring populations. Responsible tourism helps by funding these conservation initiatives and raising awareness, while visitors are encouraged to observe these unique reptiles from a distance to minimize disturbance.
The marine iguana, also known as the sea iguana, saltwater iguana, or Galápagos marine iguana, is a species of iguana found only on the Galápagos Islands (Ecuador). Unique among modern lizards, it is a marine reptile that has the ability to forage in the sea for algae, which make up almost all of its diet. Marine iguanas are the only extant lizard that spends time in a marine environment. Large males are able to dive to find this food source, while females and smaller males feed during low tide in the intertidal zone. They mainly live in colonies on rocky shores where they bask after visiting the relatively cold water or intertidal zone, but can also be seen in marshes, mangrove swamps and beaches. Large males defend territories for a short period, but smaller males have other breeding strategies. After mating, the female digs a nest hole in the soil where she lays her eggs, leaving them to hatch on their own a few months later.
Description adapted from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Where to Find
Top parks for Marine Iguana. Sightings recorded in 2 safari areas total.
Best Safari Destinations
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