16 May 2011, 10:11
Mouriki Island - Sanctuary for the Fiji Crested Iguana
Fiji is home to the endangered crested and banded iguana. Yaduataba on Vanua Levu is a well known sanctuary for these reptiles in Fiji. This year the National Trust of Fiji and Birdlife International aim to establish Monuriki island in the Mamanuca region a declared sanctuary for the crested iguana which is found on the island. Monuriki is undergoing some habitat modification to ensure a safe haven for this endangered reptile. The removal of wild goats is the first step to ensuring a safe haven. Goats are a threat as they destroy iguana habitats and the eggs which are buried in the ground. Rats that are also threats will be the subject of an eradication project in September.
