Little Cayman, located in the Caribbean, recently witnessed the tragic death of a pregnant rock iguana, reigniting concerns for the endangered species’ survival on the Sister Islands. The iguana’s unfortunate demise marked the ninth such incident on Little Cayman roads this year, with six occurring in the month of April alone. The primary cause of these fatalities? Speeding drivers, who pose a significant threat to the vulnerable iguana population.
Last year, 26 rock iguanas fell victim to road accidents in Little Cayman, while 18 met a similar fate on Cayman Brac, underscoring the persistent danger that motor vehicles pose to these creatures. Vaughan Bodden, a Terrestrial Research Officer with the Department of Environment, emphasized that road kills are a major concern for the rock iguanas of the Sister Islands, particularly during their crucial mating and hatching seasons.
Owen Foster, an eyewitness to the tragic incident, shared his heartbreaking experience of encountering the injured iguana in Blossom Village. Despite his and others’ efforts to save the creature, they were unable to prevent its untimely death. Foster’s account sheds light on the emotional toll these incidents take on both wildlife enthusiasts and concerned citizens of the Cayman Islands.
Bodden highlighted the vulnerability of rock iguanas during key life stages, such as mating and nesting, making them more susceptible to road accidents. The current estimated population of iguanas on Little Cayman stands at 1,834, though the numbers on Cayman Brac remain uncertain. The dwindling population of these iconic reptiles underscores the urgent need for enhanced conservation efforts and public awareness campaigns to protect them from further harm.
Efforts to mitigate the threat of road kills include the installation of warning signs in high-risk areas and collaboration with law enforcement to enforce driving regulations. Despite these initiatives, the incidents persist, posing a significant challenge to wildlife conservation in the region. Bodden urged drivers to exercise caution on the roads, especially during breeding and nesting seasons, and called for increased vigilance in safeguarding the rock iguanas’ habitat.
With each loss of a breeding age adult iguana, the overall population faces a disproportionate impact, underscoring the critical importance of minimizing road kills. As custodians of these unique species, residents and visitors alike play a vital role in preserving the natural heritage of the Sister Islands, starting with responsible driving practices and reporting any incidents involving rock iguanas to the appropriate authorities. Through collective action and environmental stewardship, the Cayman Islands can work towards ensuring a sustainable future for the rock iguanas and other indigenous wildlife.