Facts about Galapagos Marine Iguana Behavior

1. 05

   Shrinkage in body length has been observed in Galapagos marine iguanas during El Niño events, when food scarcity causes their bones to actually decrease in size.

   Galapagos Marine Iguana BehaviorJun 6shareadaptationsurvivalphysiology
2. 04

   During breeding season, male Galapagos marine iguanas establish and defend territories on rocky shores, performing head-bobbing displays to assert dominance over rivals.

   Galapagos Marine Iguana BehaviorJun 6sharebehaviorreproductioncompetition
3. 03

   To expel the excess salt ingested while feeding underwater, Galapagos marine iguanas sneeze out salt crystals through specialized nasal glands.

   Galapagos Marine Iguana BehaviorJun 6sharebiologyadaptationphysiology
4. 02

   After foraging in cold ocean waters, Galapagos marine iguanas warm themselves by basking in groups on sun-heated lava rocks to restore their body temperature.

   Galapagos Marine Iguana BehaviorJun 6sharethermoregulationbehaviorreptiles
5. 01

   Marine iguanas of the Galápagos are the only lizards in the world that forage in the ocean, diving to graze on submerged algae.

   Galapagos Marine Iguana BehaviorJun 6sharebiologyevolutionforaging