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A Fiji exclusive - the Crested Iguana is thought to have arrived here from South America by floating across the Pacific on beds of reeds and other vegetable matter, although other theories have recently be offered to explain their presence here. They are only found in Fiji on the dry leeward islands off Viti Levu and Vanua Levu. The have been found in the Mamanucas, Yasawas, Mali and Macuata Islands. 99% of the world’s population is protected at a sanctuary on the Island of Yanduataba. |
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Thanks to the wisdom of Ratu Alifereti Ramatai and his brother, Ratu Meli Ramatai the sanctuary provides this endangered reptile the chance to re-establish its self. Captive breeding programs are also helping to build bigger populations and Taronga Zoo is assisting Kula Eco Park in managing such a program here. |
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The animal is largely solitary, coming together only to mate or confront each other. Displays of territorial defense include head bobbing and the darkening of body color. Males also communicate with females by head bobbing but the speed and duration is different to that shown in aggression. |
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Females deposit their eggs in shallow burrows in the soil or substrate. Incubation is extremely long. The eggs can take from 21 to 35 weeks to hatch. The juveniles are extremely timid. After hatching they immediately drink but do not eat for the first seven days. They grow to an average of 16.6cm snout to vent length for males and 15.7cm for females. |
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Their diet in the wild consists of leaves, fruits and blossoms of various trees. The diet we feed here at the park was developed by Taronga Zoo and includes hibiscus leaves & flowers, whole wheat bread, orange, broccoli and peas. Most moisture intake is from water droplets sprayed on leaves and foodstuff. |
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Only through the assistance of the National Trust for Fiji, Taronga Zoo and the wonderful people of Yaduataba is it possible for us to share these unique creatures with you. |
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