^Click on photo for larger image^ Green Iguana Iguana iguana

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The green iguana, known locally as "bamboo chicken", is the largest lizard in Belize and one of the largest in the world. A full grown male can reach nearly 7 feet, most of it being tail. It is often found perched on a branch overhanging a river, and when threatened will plunge intot he water for safety.

The iguana diet changes with age. The juvenile often forages on the forest floor, searching for invertebrates such as insects, grubs, worms and snails. The adult is mainly a plant eater, feeding on berries, leaves and fruit. Occassionally it will catch and eat small mamals and nestling birds. The delicious flesh of the iguana and the rich eggs are a delicacy in Belize. Prior to protection, the iguana was heavily hunted. Today, there are numerous captive breeding programs spawned by the pilot project at the Belize Zoo.

KEY FACTS LENGTH: To 6 feet HABITAT: Riverine forests DISTRIBUTION: Countrywide along rivers and streams FOOD: fruit, leaves, invertebrates