Endangered Iguanas
Crested Iguana
Scientific Name: Brachylophus vitiensis
Fijian Name: ‘vokai’
The Fijian Crested Iguana, Brachylophus vitiensis, is endemic to the Fiji Islands and is currently listed as Critically Endangered under The World Conservation Union (IUCN) criteria. The vokai is restricted to dry forest areas which are rarely found in Fiji nowadays due to fires. Three areas in Fiji still have populations of crested iguanas, and include Monuriki in the Mamanucas, Macuata and Yadua Taba, which is also a reserve for the species.
Banded Iguana
Scientific Name: Brachylophus fasciatus
Fijian Name: ‘vokai’
The Fiji banded iguana and the closely related crested iguana are the most geographically isolated iguanas in the world. They are believed to have evolved from green iguanas that rafted on debris across the Pacific Ocean from South America.
Male Fiji banded iguanas are emerald green with broad, light-coloured bands. The females are solid green with occasional spotting.
Due to habitat destruction and, more significantly, the introduction of mongooses and house cats to the islands, populations of these iguanas have been declining over the past century. Both species of Fijian iguanas are considered to be endangered and have full protection under both Fiji and international laws.
