There are over 200 species of reptiles found in Costa Rica. Some of the more frequently seen reptiles in Costa Rica is the Green Iguana

Most iguanas live in the rainforests of Central and South America but some come from drier areas and along the coasts. Young iguanas are a very light green and blend in well with their natural habitat. Their tail is striped and this also help them blend in. Older iguanas live high up in the trees. All iguanas are excellent climbers. They are also great swimmers. They hold their legs close to their body and propel through the water using their tail, much the same way as crocodiles and alligators swim.

Iguanas can reach a length of 5-7 feet. Weighing as much as 18 pounds. In the wild, iguanas are expected to live for 10-15 years.

Iguanas are pretty strict herbivores, choosing to eat leaves and plants, though sometimes they'll eat small insects to supplement their protein intake.

Green iguanas have good senses of hearing and smell, and superb vision. Their long tail is also quite sharp, and is snapped in the air as a defense mechanism. The tail can also break off if caught by a predator, but grows back without permanent damage. Green iguana skin is very water resistant, and tough to avoid cuts and scratches.

Like many tropical species, the green iguana is also threatened by habitat destruction. The green iguana is also a victim of the pet industry. Many people in the United States and elsewhere want a green iguana for a pet, so there is a big demand for their capture. Although many pet iguanas are now being raised on iguana farms, capture from the wild has lowered their numbers.