The International Iguana Foundation (IIF) provides core support funding to assist in the conservation of Ricord’s iguanas (Cyclura ricordii) in both Haiti and the Dominican Republic. C. ricordii is listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN Red List. With only 2,000-4,000 individuals estimated to be in the wild and less than 100km2 of native habitat left, the Ricord’s iguana is one of the IIF’s priority projects. There are 4 known subpopulations of C. ricordii, 3 located in the Dominican Republic and only 1 in Haiti, left in the wild. The Ricord’s iguana project includes population monitoring, outreach and education work, and land protection. Major threats to this species include hunting and land conversion for agriculture and charcoal production. The IIF realizes that a constant presence in the field is the key to deterring hunters from harvesting this endangered species and protecting nesting sites. Loss of nesting habitat is a key factor in the decline of Ricord’s iguanas. In order to sustain this population, critical nesting areas must be protected. The IIF hopes to purchase additional land to provide sanctuaries for wild iguanas, however funding is needed. You can help us by making a donation to the IIF using the donation portal on this page.
For more information on the Ricord's iguana, please see the species profile or project page.