Land Iguana
Galapagos is probably best known for its fascinating range of endemic reptiles. The giant tortoise is world-renowned, and the unique marine iguana, the only sea-going lizard in the world, is almost as well known. In addition, there are two distinct species of land iguana, one of these unique to Santa Fé island. There are seven species of lava lizard, many of which are restricted to particular islands, and a range of snakes and geckos that are known to be found only in Galapagos.
The presence of humans in the islands has resulted in the introduction of many foreign species, including those that prey on reptiles or destroy nests, eggs and hatchlings, or disturb the balance within ecosystems. In some cases, species have been forced to extinction. Historically, humans themselves have hunted giant tortoises from some islands to a critically endangered level, or even to extinction. Now the tables are turning, and successful breeding programs for tortoises and land iguanas, run by the CDF and the Galapagos National Park Service, are beginning to repopulate some islands with their native reptile species.
CDF Fact sheets on Galapagos native and endemic reptiles
Giant Tortoises
Pinta giant tortoise (Lonesome George)
Marine iguana
Land iguanas