What an incredible animal to spot in the wild!
The black spiny-tailed iguana is native to Mexico and Central America (Costa Rica is a part of Central America). They are excellent climbers and can be found on trees or rocky areas. Unfortunately, they have also been introduced to Florida. Since this iguana is not native to Florida, it is dangerous to Florida's ecosystem. Therefore, they are considered to be an invasive species in Florida.
Because of its black, brown and grey colors, it blends into its enviroment very well. In the photo, look how similar the iguana is to the tree it's on!
These iguanas are also super fast. They can run up to 22 mph! Can you run that fast? If a predator tries to eat an iguana, the iguana has the chance to outrun the predator. If they can't outrun the predator, they will whip their tail around and bite.
They are also omnivores (just like you and me). Depending on what's around them, they can eat almost anything - plants and insects alike. Sometimes, they can even eat smaller animals such as small birds, lizards and rodents.
Ocelots, coyotes, boa constricters and hawks target these iguanas. Juvenile iguanas (baby iguanas) are even more at risk since they can't defend themselves as well as an adult. Humans in Costa Rica are known to also hunt iguanas and eat them. My host dad told me that they taste just like chicken! As of now, the black spiny-tailed iguana is not endanagered. It is considered to have a stable population within Central America.
