Back from the brink: Grand Cayman’s ‘blue dragon’ returns from near extinction

The ‘Blue Dragon’ Returns (Image: Canva)

Two million years ago, Grand Cayman rose from Caribbean waters. Soon after, giant blue lizards began to roam its shores.

These reptiles, known as Grand Cayman blue iguanas, are striking creatures. With vivid blue skin and spiny crests, they appear prehistoric. They are the island's largest native land animals today.

Although long part of the island's ecosystem, their species status came late. In 2004, they were officially recognised as separate from rock iguanas. They are now considered unique to Grand Cayman.

Why Did Blue Iguanas Almost Disappear?

Blue iguanas once thrived across the island. But human settlement brought new threats to their survival. Habitat destruction and hunting affected their numbers. Feral dogs and cats made things worse.

By the 1990s, fewer than 200 remained in the wild. In 2002, the population dropped to under 25. Their future looked bleak. Locals began calling them “blue dragons” due to their look and rarity.

How Conservation Efforts Turned the Tide

The Blue Iguana Recovery Program began urgent action. Captive breeding helped boost numbers safely. More than 1,200 iguanas have been reintroduced into wild areas since.

In 2012, the IUCN reclassified the species. It moved from critically endangered to endangered on the Red List. Their comeback became a symbol of hope for local conservation.

The iguanas can grow over 1.5 metres long. Some weigh more than 11 kilograms and live up to 40 years. They show unique behaviours not seen in other reptiles.

They often yawn, sneeze and defend territory for hours. Adult males travel widely for mates. Females stay in place and may become aggressive after mating.

What Makes These Lizards Stand Out?

Their brilliant blue shade helps them send signals. Males turn brighter in mating season to impress females. Colour changes are controlled by skin pigment cells.

They are also very selective eaters. They flick their tongues to test plants before eating. The same behaviour helps them detect scents, mates and dangers.

Who Is Behind Their Rescue?

The National Trust leads the blue iguana recovery. Conservationist Frederic Burton directs the breeding and release program. Each year, young iguanas are raised in protected centres.

They are released after two to three years of growth. Rangers continue to monitor the wild population carefully. They also work to control predators and protect habitats.

Despite the progress, challenges still remain. Feral cats pose a major threat to the species. Conservation teams are expanding protected areas and improving defences.

Locals now see blue iguanas as part of their identity. Their emotional bond helped support long-term conservation. The recovery story stands as a reminder of what care can do.