One of the hidden treasures of the Galápagos Islands, found only on Santa Fe Island, a small, rocky island in the central part of the archipelago. This makes it an endemic species, restricted to just one location on Earth. Closely related to the more widespread Galápagos land iguana (Conolophus subcristatus), the Santa Fe land iguana is set apart by its paler coloring, usually a soft yellowish to whitish tone, which helps it blend into the sun-bleached rocks and dry vegetation of its island home. With their thick bodies, sharp claws, and spiny crests running down their backs, .

On Santa Fe, these iguanas feed primarily on prickly pear cacti (Opuntia)—devouring the pads, fruits, and even spines, thanks to their tough mouths and efficient digestive systems. The cactus is both a food and water source, allowing the iguanas to survive in the island’s hot, arid climate where fresh water is scarce. In return, the iguanas act as important seed dispersers, spreading cactus seeds through their droppings and helping maintain the unique vegetation of Santa Fe. This interdependence makes them a keystone species of the island ecosystem.

Santa Fe land iguanas are mostly solitary, spending much of the day basking in the sun on rocky outcrops or sandy clearings, conserving energy in the heat. When threatened, they can retreat into burrows or crevices, where they remain safe from predators. Males are territorial, especially during the breeding season, when they display dominance with head-bobs, push-ups, and sometimes physical clashes. Females dig burrows in sandy soil to lay eggs, which then incubate for several months before hatching. Hatchlings emerge fully independent, beginning the cycle anew in the harsh yet fascinating island landscape.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Ecuador

3,500–4,000

VU

2019

Galápagos