Galapagos Iguanas
These strange creatures come in two basic types: marine iguanas (Amblyrhynchus cristatus) and land iguanas. In some areas of the islands they are extremely prolific, as shown here. They are unafraid of people, but the smaller individuals will bolt quickly if a galapagos hawk--one of their natural enemies--passes overhead.
Above, left, and left below: Brilliantly colored marine iguanas at Punta Suarez on Hood Island pile atop one another near our landing zone.
Below: a male marine iguana makes amorous moves towards a female at Punta Suarez.
Above: visitors to the Charles Darwin Research Station at Academy Bay at Puerto Aroya photograph marine iguanas. These algae eaters were occasionally seen munch algae buildup on the sides of boats anchored here.
Above, right: Two male marine iguanas tussle at Puerto Egas on James Island.
Land iguanas (Conolophus subcristatus): faces only mothers could love...
Above: this golden specimen was at Urvina Bay. The iguana was surrounded by numerous iguana dens.
Right: close-ups of land iguanas on South Plaza Island.
