WildView™

November 12, 2014

Back from the Brink

- as seen by -

Paul P. Calle

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PART 2  

Although they once numbered in the thousands, by 2001, there were less than 20 blue iguanas in the wilds of Grand Cayman. Good science, animal management, reproduction, medical care, and health screenings were critical if the iguanas were to be saved from extinction.

The Blue Iguana Recovery Program (BIRP), led by Fred Burton with partners like the Wildlife Conservation Society, set a plan in motion. BIRP researchers watched wild blue iguanas on the east end of the island to learn what they could of the iguana’s needs for space and survival. The scientists set up a safe zone at QE II Botanic Garden for a precious few “founders” (genetically unrelated animals from wild populations) and a tiny captive breeding program began. An annual health-monitoring program was also put in place, led by WCS Chief Veterinarian Paul Calle and New York Aquarium Curator of Aquatic Health Catherine McClave.

Blue iguanas are slow breeders and not the most prolific of creatures. They produce one clutch per year of 10–20 roundish, leathery eggs, a little larger than a chicken’s. With luck and careful attention, they hatch in 70 days.

New hatchlings participate in a two-year head start program with BIRP. The young iguanas are cared for until they are big enough to hold their own against predators. Before they are released back into the wild, though, they are examined by Dr. Calle (above, with Doug Bell) and the recovery team. Over the years, the number of iguanas participating has exploded. In June and July 2014, 82 were examined — more than the entire world population of blue iguanas only few years ago.

Three protected areas on the eastern side of Grand Cayman also help blue iguanas’ long-term outlook. QE II Botanic Garden, Salina Reserve, and Colliers Wilderness Reserve are all hot, humid spots with the craggiest of substrates that seem so unwelcoming only an iguana could love them — and the lizards do.

The hope for the species is brighter now than it has been for many years, with a population recovery goal of 1000 free-living blue iguanas within reach.

A species is back from the brink.

With Julie Larsen Maher.

Nikon Coolpix S1200

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