Habitat:
Dry forests, scrublands and rocky coastal areas

Activity period :
Active during the day when temperatures are favorable, often seen basking in the sun.

Identification and description:
The rhinoceros iguana is a large herbivorous lizard endemic to the Caribbean, reaching 65–136 cm including tail, with a robust body and a head adorned with bony protrusions resembling horns. It inhabits dry forests, scrublands, and rocky coastal areas of Hispaniola and surrounding islands, feeding on leaves, flowers, and fruits. Solitary and territorial, breeding occurs in the spring, when males display head bobs and body push-ups to defend territory and attract females.

Recommended lens:
300 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
Photograph the rhinoceros iguana from a distance using a telephoto lens of >=300 mm at low angle at sunrise or sunset to isolate its cranial protrusions against the sky. Use a fast shutter speed to freeze movement and a shallow depth of field to separate its robust body from the background. Remain still and quiet.