Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Rhinoceros iguana
Scientific name: Cyclura cornuta
IUCN Status: Vulnerable
Family: IGUANIDAE
Group: Reptiles
Shyness: Tolerant
Safe distance: 10 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 01.02-30.04
Gestation: 85-90 jours
Births: 01.05-30.06
Habitat:
Dry forests, scrublands and rocky coastal areas
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
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.
Ready to take action?
Choose your platform and start your free trial today
