Restoring a New Wild Population of Blue Iguanas (Cyclura lewisi) in the Salina Reserve, Grand Cayman

Abstract

Twenty-three immature Grand Cayman Blue Iguanas (Cyclura lewisi) were released into xerophytic shrubland in the Salina Reserve on Grand Cayman in December 2004. After seven months in the wild, at least 91% had survived, remained in the release areas, and grown. The iguanas are expected to reach sexual maturity by 2006. The females were occupying average usage areas of approximately 0.6 acres in summer 2005, very similar to the summer usage areas occupied by much older, mature females in the QE II Botanic Park. The maximum viable population density for this age class in this habitat is estimated to be between 4 and 5 iguanas/acre. The existing release area is just sufficient to accept the next release of 60–70 two-year-old Blue Iguanas, scheduled for December 2005. One concern is that these iguanas may instinctively leave the reserve to seek historic nesting habitat on the adjacent coast, where vehicular traffic is now a severe threat.