Paignton Zoo is home to just one of these Fijian banded iguanas. You can find them in our Tropical Trails exhibit.
Class:
Reptilia
Order:
Squamata
Family:
Iguanidae
The Fijian banded iguana is native to the islands of Fiji, particularly found on Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, and some smaller islands. They are rarely found outside this region, making them a unique and iconic species of the South Pacific.
The Fijian banded iguana is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss, predation by introduced species (such as rats, cats, and mongoose), and illegal poaching for the pet trade. Their restricted range and declining population make conservation efforts critical.