California Zoo takes in 8 critically endangered iguanas after major wildlife trafficking bust

San Diego, California – The San Diego Zoo announced Thursday that it has become the new home for eight critically endangered Fijian iguanas, rescued from a large-scale illegal wildlife trafficking operation in Spain. These reptiles were among more than 600 animals seized in 2017 as part of an international effort to combat the illegal wildlife trade.

Over the past eight years, the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance has worked closely with the governments of Fiji and Spain to bring the iguanas to San Diego, where experts will study their genetics and help further the conservation of the species.

“Confiscations of trafficked wildlife happen more often than people realize, and reptiles are especially vulnerable due to their high demand in the illegal pet trade,” said Brett Baldwin, curator of herpetology and ichthyology at the San Diego Zoo. Baldwin emphasized the zoo’s long history of assisting in wildlife seizures, with over 20 reptile confiscations and seizures in the past 28 years.

Before arriving in San Diego, the iguanas were cared for by the Foundation for Research in Ethology and Biodiversity near Madrid. The Department of Environment in Fiji and the National Trust of Fiji authorized the transfer to San Diego.

“Wildlife smuggling is a real threat to Fiji’s endangered iguana populations, which are already facing pressures from human activities and invasive species,” said Setoki Tuiteci, Chairman of the National Trust of Fiji. He expressed gratitude for the efforts of security authorities and organizations like the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, who play a crucial role in conservation efforts.

Native to the tropical, dry forests of Fiji’s northwestern islands, the Fiji crested iguana is a large lizard that can grow up to 30 inches in length. Males are particularly distinct, sporting three narrow cream-to-white-colored bands across their bodies.

To prepare for their relocation, Baldwin traveled to Spain to help facilitate the iguanas’ flight to the U.S. Upon arrival in Los Angeles, Wildlife Care Manager Brandon Scott took charge of their transfer to the San Diego Zoo. The iguanas were immediately given health assessments and placed in quarantine at the zoo’s Jennings Veterinary Hospital, where they will remain for now.

After their quarantine period, the iguanas will be integrated into the zoo’s conservation programs. Scientists plan to analyze the reptiles’ genetic makeup to determine whether poachers illegally snatched them from the wild or bred for trafficking, and to identify their potential origin on Fiji’s islands.

The San Diego Zoo has been instrumental in conserving Fijian iguanas since the 1990s. The zoo’s breeding program has produced over 100 hatchlings, and every Fijian iguana at U.S. institutions accredited by the AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums) originates from San Diego.

“These rescued iguanas will contribute to the long-term conservation of the species and raise awareness about the dangers of illegal trafficking and habitat destruction,” said Jose Martel of the CITES Management Authority of Spain. CITES, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, is committed to protecting biodiversity worldwide.