Corytophanes cristatus

(Merrem, 1820)

Vernacular names
English : Smooth helmeted iguana
French : Basilic casqué

Classification
Class : Reptilia
Order : Squamata
Family : Corytophanidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
The species can reach up to 20 cm in body length, rarely longer. Conspicuous casque and veil-like crest on top of head and nape. Coloration grey brown to reddish with dark blotching and banding. Dark band from eye to mouth.

Range and habitat
This species occurs in central America, from eastern Mexico to Panama and in Colombia. Lives in forests and shrublands, both dry and wet, up to 800 meters.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not listed
Status : The species seems to remain at least locally common within its large range. Future threats still need to be better understood.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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