Rock Iguanas: A $7 Million Economic Driver for TCI Tourism
How Our Native Rock Iguanas Impact the Turks and Caicos Economy
When you join us on our Inner Island Adventure to Little Water Cay (fondly known as “Iguana Island”), you’re not just witnessing a fascinating reptile—you’re experiencing a major economic driver for our islands.
A groundbreaking study by Economics for the Environment Consultancy Ltd (eftec) has revealed that TCI rock iguanas contribute between $2.2 million and $7.3 million annually to our tourism economy. That’s right—our endemic reptile friends support local jobs, attract international visitors, and represent a true conservation success story.
The Economics Behind Conservation
The study, conducted for the Turks and Caicos Islands Iguana Partnership in 2022, found that over a 10-year period:
- Rock iguanas support approximately $50 million in tourism spending
- They help maintain 160 permanent jobs in the tourism sector
- The non-use value (existence value) is estimated at $9 million
“Sustaining the current level of conservation funding for rock iguanas is needed to maintain the current tourist expenditure,” the study emphasizes, highlighting how conservation and economic benefits go hand-in-hand.
A Conservation Success Story You Can Experience
As Captain Levardo Talbot explains: “When visitors join our tours to see the rock iguanas at Little Water Cay, they’re directly contributing to one of the most important conservation efforts in the Turks and Caicos.”
This conservation success is particularly meaningful to us at Talbot’s Adventures. As noted in the study, past investments of $2.4 million in conservation efforts have helped improve the rock iguana’s status from Critically Endangered to Endangered on the IUCN Red List in 2020—a remarkable achievement.
Experience the Rock Iguanas on Our Inner Island Adventure
On our popular Inner Island Adventure, you’ll experience:
- Up-close encounters with rock iguanas in their natural habitat
- Knowledgeable Captain sharing insights about iguana conservation
- A journey through the stunning Princess Alexandra National Park
- Visits to Mangrove Cay, Little Water Cay, Half Moon Bay Beach, and other pristine locations
The trip takes just 4 hours, making it perfect for visitors with limited time but who want to experience this unique TCI treasure.
The Threat and Our Response
The TCI rock iguana (Cyclura carinata) is unique to our islands and was nearly wiped out in the 1970s. As the study notes, “in 1974 the rock iguana population was estimated at 15,000 on Pine Cay but was almost completely eradicated within a couple of years due to the introduction of cats and dogs.”
Today, conservation efforts focus on:
- Removing invasive species like cats and rats
- Strengthening biosecurity across key habitats
- Managing tourism to protect iguana populations
- Educational programs for locals and visitors
Join Us in Supporting Rock Iguana Conservation
Every visitor to Little Water Cay contributes directly to conservation through entrance fees. When you book a tour with Talbot’s Adventures, you’re supporting a company that values and promotes the protection of these remarkable creatures.
Book your Inner Island Adventure today and become part of this inspiring conservation success story!
Want to learn more about the study? The full report “Benefits of rock iguanas to the Turks and Caicos Islands” was prepared by Economics for the Environment Consultancy Ltd (eftec) for the Turks and Caicos Islands Iguana Partnership in March 2022.
Photo credit: Caicos Media
