Seacology: Protecting the Iguanas of San Salvador, Bahamas

A small island in the Bahamas, San Salvador contains diverse marine and terrestrial habitats that are home to many native species, several of which are threatened. With a population of just 1,000, the island's inhabitants include several local groups that are seeking to boost conservation efforts in the area. Seacology is partnering with these groups to fund an iguana head-starting facility to protect the endemic San Salvador iguana, a globally endangered reptile with only 500 individuals remaining in the wild. This colorful iguana is typically orange to brown in color and boasts a crest of spiny scales down its back. Extensive habitat destruction on San Salvador has put the iguana's population at grave risk. These iguanas are vital in keeping island mosquito populations in check, which grow rampant and often debilitating in their absence. They also serve a critical purpose in island plant restoration as seeds are randomly dropped from their waste.
Seacology's project will provide a safe facility for breeding these endangered species, which will then be released into the wild with the native populations. Once constructed, the facility will be jointly managed by the Gerace Research Centre (GRC), operated by the College of the Bahamas, as well as several other local organizations. Such a facility will also provide valuable educational opportunities for local youth and adults, as well as encouraging increased tourism. The local community is environmentally conscious and extremely supportive of the iguana facility. Seacology will be funding the initial construction costs of the facility, which is expected to be self-sustaining in the long term.
Full project info here:
www.seacology.org/projects/ind...

[@invurack420]

great job guys, keep up the good work!

[@dylangeltzeiler946]

I hate seeing a species dwindle away. So far lost about a few dozen different Animals over the years. As for those that are still with us, Such as one those Caribbean Iguanas, They need to be brought back. Back in greater numbers.