Puerto Rico’s Iguana
Iguanas are supposedly known to be good pets. In Puerto Rico though you can see them lingering around along side of the islands beach areas. They love eating the green “stuff” lol . From 🥭 Mangoe, to bananas 🍌 Iguanas come in different sizes. This one here has to be at least 3 feet long. In some cultures it is considered a food source , some say it tastes like pork or chicken.🤢 Would you eat iguanas? They are well hydrated reptiles for they live in and out of water. They can be fun to have around but can also cause problems with flight delays , there seems to be over millions of species on the island of Puerto Rico itself., and the population seems to be growing. They tend be more afraid of humans then humans if them. So if you see any along your cultural visit, say hi but be kind! They are exciting to observe, but let them be , they deserve to live their best life too! 📍 City/Country: Location:#Sanjuan #Iguanas #notfood #ancientcreatures #history
During my recent travels through Puerto Rico, one of the most striking observations wasn't just the stunning beaches or vibrant culture, but the sheer number of green iguanas! It sparked a lot of curiosity, and I often heard visitors asking, 'Are these iguanas native to Puerto Rico?' The simple answer is no. These fascinating reptiles, often seen basking on a grassy slope or perched confidently on a concrete edge, are actually an invasive species. It's widely believed they were introduced to the island decades ago, largely through the exotic pet trade. When these pets became too large or difficult to manage, many were unfortunately released into the wild. Puerto Rico's tropical climate, abundant lush vegetation, and lack of natural predators created a perfect storm for these creatures (specifically, the Common Green Iguana, *Iguana iguana*) to thrive. Their population has exploded to the point where it's estimated there are millions across the island – sometimes I felt like I saw more iguanas than people in certain areas! While they're undeniably captivating to watch with their distinctive spiky crests, prominent dewlaps, and often beautifully striped tails, their presence comes with a significant ecological impact. I learned that these voracious herbivores compete directly with native wildlife for food resources and habitat. They've been known to feast on agricultural crops, and their burrowing habits can even undermine infrastructure, like roads and foundations – quite a problem for the local community! The original article mentioned flight delays, and it's true; their presence near airport runways can indeed cause operational issues. It's a complex situation where an introduced species has found such success that it's altering the natural balance. Despite their impact, it's hard not to be mesmerized by them. I spotted these magnificent creatures almost daily, especially in sun-drenched areas. My favorite spots were near coastal lines and around the outskirts of towns like San Juan, where they soak up the sun's rays on any available surface. Their diet, as mentioned, is mostly 'green stuff' – various leaves, flowers, and fruits like mangoes, which they seem to adore! I even watched one meticulously munching on fallen fruit. They truly are masters of survival in this environment. While they might look imposing, especially the larger ones that can easily reach three feet or more, they are generally quite timid. The common advice I heard, and observed first-hand, is that they are usually more afraid of humans than we are of them. However, it's crucial to remember they are wild animals. It's best to admire them from a distance, snap your photos, but avoid trying to touch or feed them. A cornered or startled iguana can deliver a nasty bite or a powerful tail whip. So, if you're exploring Puerto Rico, keep an eye out for these ancient-looking creatures. They’re a unique part of the island's current story, offering a fascinating glimpse into how ecosystems adapt, for better or worse. Just respect their space and enjoy the spectacle!