Qalito Island has celebrated a remarkable ecological milestone with the return of the Fijian Crested Iguana, a species that had not been seen in the area since the early 1980s. This important event marks a significant step in the recovery efforts for one of Fiji’s most endangered reptiles.
In a ceremonious release this week, six iguanas were relocated to Qalito Island from Six Senses Fiji on Malolo Island, following successful measures to eradicate feral cats and restore the island’s native dry forest habitat. Sheemal Nand, an Environment Officer from the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, officiated the release, underscoring the importance of this initiative as a demonstration of commitment to wildlife protection within the Mamanucas.
Nand highlighted how the conservation efforts on Qalito align with broader national objectives aimed at safeguarding vulnerable species and rehabilitating damaged ecosystems. Dr. Peter Harlow, the project lead, noted that these significant achievements stem from dedicated work that began in 2020. The careful removal of feral cats, as well as the clearing of invasive plant species and the reintroduction of native flora, has created favorable conditions for the iguanas to thrive.
Surveys conducted on Qalito confirmed that there are 35.7 hectares of habitat suitable for these iguanas, with all essential plants for their survival present. The Mamanuca Environment Society emphasized the importance of this release, describing it as the establishment of an insurance population for the Malolo iguanas, which will secure a stable presence in the region.
Each iguana has been fitted with a transmitter and microchip, allowing a Fijian student to monitor their movements over the next three months, with assistance from Auckland Zoo. The Society noted that this initiative exemplifies the effectiveness of collaboration among tourism operators, landowners, government entities, and conservation specialists, all working together for a common goal.
The successful reintroduction of the Fijian Crested Iguana not only enhances the biodiversity of Qalito Island but also reinforces a long-term dedication to preserving the natural heritage that is vital to the identity of the Mamanuca Islands. This uplifting development offers hope for the future of endangered species and highlights the positive impacts of conservation efforts in the region.
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