Iguana in tree

This colorful iguana perched in a tree shows off some of the adornments of iguanas, such as the spines on his back. There are 38 species of iguanas in Costa Rica. This is a green iguana, even though it is not green.

Green iguanas are identified by their long scales running down the crest of their spine, the large circular scale at their jaw, and a skin sac, called a dewlap, hanging from their throat. I previously posted a photo of the

profile of a green iguana.

Iguanas can change in color at different times of the day. They can migrate the color pigment granules within their individual cells. If the pigment granules are clustered into a spot within each cell, the color will be less intense than if the pigment granules are spread throughout the cells. They use darker colors to absorb more heat from the sun, as they are cold-blooded reptiles, of course.

The are harmless to humans. They eat leaves and twigs as adults. Teenage iguanas prefer insects. They spend most of their time in trees. If threatened, they can drop from the branches into a stream and swim away.

Some local people eat iguana. I have been served grilled iguana by locals once or twice. They said that it tasted like chicken. My Costa Rican wildlife guidebook says that it is an acquired taste. I decided that was one taste I did not need to acquire.

Green iguanas are also called a common iguana or locally called a garrabo. Its scientific name is the rather uncreative "iguana iguana."