Fiji Crested Iguana

The Fiji Crested Iguana or Fijian crested iguana (Brachylophus vitiensis) is a critically endangered species of iguana native to some of the northwestern islands of the Fijian archipelago, where it is found in dry forest on Yaduataba (west of Vanua Levu), Yadua, Macuata, Yaquaga, Devuilau (Goat Island), Malolo, Monu, and Monuriki. Fiji crested iguanas are predominantly herbivorous feeding on the leaves, fruits, shoots, and flowers from trees and shrubs.

The Fiji crested iguana is a large, stocky lizard that differs from the Fiji banded iguana by having three distinct, cream to white colored bands on males as opposed to the latter species' larger bluish bands. These black chevrons of scales are frequently present next to these white strips. The bigger size of Brachylophus vitiensis, which may reach a maximum length of 75 centimeters and a maximum weight of 300 grams, makes it stand out. It is further differentiated by a higher, spiky "crest" on its back, which extends from the base of its tail to the nape of the neck and has spines as long as 1.5 centimeters in length.