Vibrant tropical forests throughout the idyllic islands of Fiji and Tonga are home to an exceptional iguana. Using their vivid green and blue coloring to seamlessly disappear into the surrounding vegetation, critically endangered Fiji iguanas are suited for life in the treetops. While this helps keep them safe from predators, they unfortunately can’t hide from increasing threats to their survival, including wildlife trafficking, deforestation, and competition from invasive species. For over 60 years, we’ve worked with partners to save, protect, and care for this beautiful and intriguing species. You might have even encountered them at the San Diego Zoo’s Wildlife Explorers Basecamp—if you were lucky enough to spot one camouflaged in the treetops. And today, tucked away in a private area behind the scenes, there is an even larger group of Fiji iguanas, one which we recently started caring for after a harrowing adventure. Tapping into our decades of experience and partnerships, we collaborated to rescue them from illegal wildlife trafficking in Spain. Our conservation work, both at the Zoo and through our Pacific Islands Conservation Hub, has led us to pivotal moments like this, where we put our expertise into action to secure a brighter future for wildlife.

In 2017, more than 600 illegally trafficked reptiles were seized in a confiscation by Spanish authorities. A group of Fiji iguanas was part of the rescue, and discussions arose about the best course of action for them. Since little was known about their origins, they unfortunately couldn’t be returned to native habitats. Meanwhile,discussions took place between The CITES Management Authority of Spain, National Trust of Fiji, Department of National Heritage Fiji, NatureFiji-MareqetiViti, and the San Diego Zoo. It was unanimously decided that the best place for these iguanas was at the San Diego Zoo with years of successfully housing and caring for this species.
 

Moving endangered wildlife halfway across the world requires meticulous planning and coordination between countless collaborators. When it was time, our teams jumped into action to ensure the iguanas’ health and safety throughout the long journey to California, accompanying them all the way from Spain. Upon arrival in San Diego, it was all hands on deck as our Wildlife Care, Wildlife Health, and Conservation Science teams came together to assess the iguanas. This multipronged approach included full health examinations to help ensure each individual had what they need to thrive.

One unique challenge in welcoming rescued wildlife is that often, little is known about their history and where they’re from. With the help of our Conservation Genetics team, we’ll be able to answer some of these questions. Routine genetic testing can fill in the blanks on critical information we’d otherwise never be able to discover, such as the iguanas’ species, the group’s genetic diversity, and their potential islands of origin—including whether they were likely trafficked directly from their native habitats in Fiji or illegally bred. Every clue our experts uncover about the group’s mysterious past leads to increased understanding of both the individual and the species, helping conservationists equally in caring for them and securing a more sustainable future.

After their unique journey, this special group of Fiji iguanas is settling in at the Zoo. Their remarkable story is one of resilience, hope, and a fresh start—and it’s only just beginning. The iguanas’ rescue isa powerful reminder that when we come together with expertise, collaboration, and perseverance, we can achieve anything. With the help of wildlife allies like you, we’re making a difference for vulnerable and endangered species across the globe.