Iguanas Basking Near Road Town Mangroves
Two iguanas were photographed relaxing on rocks beside the mangroves behind the British Virgin Islands August Festival Village in Road Town on a recent sunny day. The sight offers a reminder of the wildlife that shares urban spaces in the BVI and the importance of protecting coastal habitats.
Two iguanas were spotted soaking up the sun on rocks beside the mangroves behind the British Virgin Islands August Festival Village in Road Town on a recent bright, warm day. The reptiles — photographed calmly basking on exposed rock near the shoreline — were taking advantage of clear skies to warm their bodies.
As cold-blooded animals, iguanas regulate their temperature by basking in the sun, often choosing open rocks, walls or other sunlit surfaces close to vegetation and water. For many residents and visitors in Tortola, an occasional view of an iguana is an everyday reminder of the territory’s natural life weaving through built-up areas.
Mangroves, like those behind the festival village, provide critical habitat: they offer food, shelter and protection for a variety of species and help stabilise shorelines and reduce erosion — benefits that are important for both wildlife and local communities. Iguanas also play a part in island ecosystems.
As largely herbivorous animals, they can help disperse seeds and influence vegetation patterns. At the same time, where human development brings pets, pests or habitat loss, conflicts can arise — from garden damage to risks to young iguanas from free-roaming dogs. Residents are encouraged to coexist with urban wildlife by keeping distance and avoiding attempts to feed or handle iguanas.
If iguanas appear to be injured, sick, or trapped in hazardous areas, contact the appropriate authorities — such as the BVI National Parks Trust or Agriculture Department — so trained personnel can respond safely. The sighting also underscores the value of conserving mangroves and other coastal green spaces in Road Town and across the BVI.
Preserving these habitats helps protect biodiversity, supports fisheries, and provides natural storm buffering — services particularly important for island communities facing changing weather patterns and sea levels. Simple actions — protecting mangroves, securing trash and garden produce, and keeping pets leashed — help maintain a healthy balance between island life and the wildlife that shares it.
On sunlit days like this one, the casual image of iguanas basking on the rocks is a small but vivid reminder of that connection.
Primary source: Virgin Islands Daily News (Website)