Cape spinytail iguana
A species of Spinytail iguanas Scientific name : Ctenosaura hemilopha Genus : Spinytail iguanas
Cape spinytail iguana, A species of Spinytail iguanas
Scientific name: Ctenosaura hemilopha
Genus: Spinytail iguanas
Content
Description General Info
Photo By gaudettelaura , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
Ctenosaura hemilopha, also known as the cape spinytail iguana , is a species of spinytail iguana endemic to Baja California. It is arboreal and primarily herbivorous, although it can be an opportunistic carnivore. Males may grow up to 100 centimeters (39Â in) in length, while females are smaller, with a length of up to 70 centimeters (28Â in). Five subspecies are currently recognized.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Primarily herbivorous, the cape spinytail iguana predominantly consumes leaves, stems, and various fruits. Occasionally opportunistic, the species may consume insects and smaller animals, although plant matter remains its primary food source.
Appearance
Cape spinytail iguana is a medium-sized lizard with a robust body and rough, keeled scales. Predominantly gray-brown, its coloration varies with intricate patterns of dark spots and stripes, especially distinct on its long, tapering tail. Males are equipped with larger head and jowls, unique to their gender. Juveniles showcase brighter colors, with distinct yellow and orange hues.
Behavior
Cape spinytail iguana is fundamentally a tree-dwelling species, exhibiting strong climbing abilities. They display territorial behavior, with males aggressively protecting their range. Their omnivorous diet includes fruits, flowers, and occasionally small vertebrates. Notably, during periods of high temperatures, these reptiles exhibit thermoregulatory behavior by basking.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Iguanids Genus
Spinytail iguanas Species
Cape spinytail iguana 
AI animal expert in your pocket
Scan QR code to download
