Removing Invasive Species from Mona Island, Puerto Rico will help Critically Endangered Iguana thrive again

Published on

January 25, 2023

Written by

Island Conservation

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Island Conservation

The Mona Iguana (Cyclura stejnegeri) is a Critically Endangered species of lizard found only on Mona Island, Puerto Rico. It is a large, ground-dwelling lizard that grows up to three feet in length and can live up to 40 years. This reptile is gray in color with dark mottling and a yellowish-orange tail. It feeds primarily on fruit, flowers, leaves, and other vegetation, and also feeds on insects, spiders, and snails. The Mona Iguana is an important species for the island’s ecosystem, providing food for other animals and helping to disperse seeds.


Unfortunately, due to the impacts of invasive species including mice, rats, and feral pigs, the population of the Mona Iguana has been greatly reduced. Invasive species have significantly decimated the nesting ground for the Mona Iguana, and other native species, by altering the nesting habitat and predating on eggs and juveniles.


Invasive species can be removed from islands, allowing wildlife the opportunity to recover and once again thrive. Removing invasive species from islands has repeatedly proven to a one of the highest conservation impacts we can have. This one-time action protects restores and protects native plants and animals, creating ecosystem resilience to climate change and benefiting nearby marine environments and communities.

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