The Lesser Antillean iguana is a critically endangered species that has disappeared from much of its range across the Eastern Caribbean. Photo Credit: Andrew Snyder / Re:wild
Animals AnguillaMatchmaking Project Brings Endangered Iguanas Back From the Brink
Critically endangered Lesser Antillean iguanas are now thriving on a small island near Anguilla after a cross-Caribbean conservation effort successfully rebuilt a healthy breeding population.
“Prickly Pear East has become a beacon of hope for these gorgeous lizards,” said Jenny Daltry, Caribbean Alliance Director at Fauna & Flora and Re:wild.
After just 23 iguanas were moved to the predator-free islet in 2016 and later joined by 10 carefully selected mates from Dominica, surveys now count more than 300 adults and juveniles. The island has become one of only five places worldwide where the species is increasing, demonstrating how targeted translocation, genetic management, and regional cooperation can reverse declines caused by invasive species and habitat loss.
