marine iguana draped over a rock on espanola island galapagos

Photo of the Day: A Marine Iguana Surveys His Domain

About Galapagos

marine iguana draped over a rock on espanola island galapagos
Blinking Idiot/ CC By 2.0/ flickr: Blinking Idiot

This striking specimen was photographed on the island of Española. Marine iguanas are only found in the Galapagos Islands and are a fairly common sight throughout the archipelago. They are usually seen basking on black, volcanic rocks near the shoreline. Males develop this beautiful red and green coloration to attract females during the breeding season, which lasts from December through March. The marine iguana can dive up to 40 feet below the water’s surface to forage for algae and seaweed, and it’s not unusual for snorkelers to catch sight of one gliding through the water.

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