Rhinoceros Iguana

Hi! I’m a Rhinoceros Iguana

The Rhino iguana is a diurnal species which lives around rocky outcrops and is the largest native herbivore on its native island, Hispaniola. The Rhino iguana plays an important role in seed dispersal on the island.

The National Zoo and Aquarium is home to 1 Rhinocerous Iguana, Ralph.

Rhinoceros Iguana Facts

Taxonomy

Cyclura cornuta 

Population Movement

Decreasing

Current Animals

Ralphy

Life Span (captive)

Up to 40 years

Weight

4.56 to 9 kilograms (10.1 to 19.8 lb)

Reproduction

Rhinoceros iguanas are polygynous. Males will use a series of head movements and body gyrations to attract females. Breeding season takes place at the beginning of the first rainy season of the year (May to June).

Their eggs are among the largest produced by any lizard, with 2 - 34 eggs in a clutch.

Conservation Status

Endangered

Group Count

1

Life Span (wild)

15 - 17 years

Size

60 to 136 centimetres (24 to 54 in)

Gestation

85 days

Distribution

Tropical Caribbean islands of Hispaniola, Haiti & Dominican Republic.