The insular ecology of these lizards magnifies the effects of these threats to the degree that iguana populations can drop significantly, or even be extirpated in the course of a few years. All species in the genus are listed in the IUCN Red Data Book for endangered amphibians and reptiles. Shedd Aquarium currently works with the Grand Cayman iguana, C. n. lewisi. The colony is on exhibit for captive breeding intentions and to promote education through public interpretation and lectures. Since 1995, Shedd Aquarium has offered opportunities for interested members of the public to help staff members survey populations of the Exuma Island iguana, C. cychlura figginsi.
Participants contribute a nominal fee to participate.
Because of the increased research assistance, we have collected a tremendous amount of data in a relatively short time. Moreover, many people harbor a deep-seated mistrust of reptiles. Involving the public exposes a wide cross-section of people to an animal that, under everyday circumstances, receives minimal attention. The experience educates people about the truly intriguing natural history of iguanas and opens the way for an increased respect and admiration for reptiles in general. The experience also is intended to strike a deeper chord by immersing people in a beautiful, yet fragile, ecosystem.