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The Lau banded iguana (Brachylophus fasciatus) is an arboreal species of lizard endemic to the Lau Islands of the eastern part of the Fijian archipelago. It is also found in Tonga, where it was probably introduced by humans. It is one of the few species of iguanas found outside of the New World and one of the most geographically isolated members of the family Iguanidae. Populations of these iguanas have been declining over the past century due to habitat destruction, and more significantly, the introduction of mongoose and house cats to the islands.
The species is diurnal, spending their days foraging, basking and watching over their territories by day and retreating to the treetops at night. Fiji iguanas are considered a national treasure by the government of Fiji, and its likeness has been featured on postage stamps, currency, and phone book covers.
Status | Date Listed | Lead Region | Where Listed |
---|---|---|---|
Endangered | 03/20/1980 | Foreign (Headquarters) | Wherever found |
03/20/1980 | 45 FR 18009 18010 | Listing with Endangered Status for Five Species of Foreign Reptiles |
11/02/1979 | 44 FR 63474 63476 | Proposed Listing with Endangered Status for Five Species of Foreign Reptiles |