The Lau banded iguana is a hidden gem of the Fijian Islands, a living emerald treasure nestled amongst the rainforest canopy. Imagine a lizard around the size of a large ruler, its body robust and powerful, perfectly adapted for life in the trees. But this iguana isn’t just about blending in with the green. Look a little closer, and you’ll see the feature that makes it a true standout – the bands! As its name suggests, the Lau banded iguana boasts a stunning display of color. Bold white stripes run horizontally across its emerald green body, creating a striking contrast. These stripes can vary slightly in width and may even have a hint of blue, making each Lau banded iguana a unique piece of living art.

The color scheme differs between the sexes, with the males taking the spotlight. They wear their stripes proudly, broader and more pronounced, highlighting their muscular build. Females, on the other hand, are adorned with a touch of elegance. Their bands are often fainter, sometimes replaced by delicate white spots, all adding to their overall charm. Both males and females, however, share a spiky crest running down their backs and tails. These crests, though small, add a touch of prehistoric charm, hinting at their ancient lineage.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Fiji

2012

Tonga

2012

Introduced