The Land Tortoises of Saint-Barthelemy
Meet the discreet terrestrial reptiles of the Caribbean island
The Land Tortoises of the Island
Unlike the famous sea turtles that inhabit the crystal-clear waters of Saint-Barth, land tortoises are much rarer and more discreet on the island. No endemic species of land tortoise is native to Saint-Barthelemy.
A few introduced domestic tortoises can be observed in private gardens, notably red-eared sliders (Trachemys scripta) escaped from captivity and Greek tortoises (Testudo graeca) imported as pets.
The island is home to an important population of Lesser Antillean iguanas(Iguana delicatissima), iconic terrestrial reptiles, as well as many species of endemic lizards such as the Saint-Barth anole.
Observable Species (Introduced)
Red-eared Slider (Trachemys scripta elegans)
Origin: North America (introduced)
Size: 12-28 cm shell length
Appearance: Olive-green shell with yellow stripes, distinctive red line behind the eye
Habitat: Freshwater ponds, artificial pools, private gardens
Status: Invasive species escaped from captivity, very limited population
Observation: Rare, sometimes seen in private freshwater ponds
Greek Tortoise (Testudo graeca)
Origin: Mediterranean and North Africa (introduced)
Size: 18-25 cm shell length
Appearance: Domed yellow-brown shell with black geometric patterns
Habitat: Dry gardens, rocky areas, private properties
Diet: Strict herbivore (grasses, flowers, leaves)
Observation: Very rare, only in private properties as pets
The True Land Reptiles of Saint-Barth
Lesser Antillean Iguana (Iguana delicatissima)
Status: Species endemic to the Lesser Antilles, critically endangered
Size: Up to 45 cm body + 60 cm tail (males)
Appearance: Gray-green skin, developed dewlap, imposing dorsal crest
Habitat: Arid rocky areas, mangroves, dry forests
Population: About 500-800 individuals in Saint-Barth, one of the last viable populations
Observation: Colombier, Flamands, Gouverneur, coastal rocky areas
Warning: Strictly protected species. Observe from a distance, never feed or touch.
Saint-Barth Anole
Small endemic arboreal lizard (Anolis schwartzi), bright green with extensible orange throat.
Observation: Everywhere on the island, trees and walls
Sputator Dwarf Gecko
Tiny nocturnal gecko (Sphaerodactylus sputator), 4-5 cm, endemic to the Lesser Antilles.
Observation: Nocturnal, under stones and bark
Saint-Barth has over 12 species of endemic lizards and geckos, but no native land tortoise!
Where to Observe Land Reptiles?
Iguanas (Native)
Protected SpeciesColombier, Grande Vigie trail, Gouverneur, rocky areas of Flamands and Toiny.
Best time: Morning 7am-10am (thermoregulation in the sun)
Anoles & Lizards
EasyEverywhere on the island: gardens, walls, trees, trails. Very common and not shy.
Best time: All day, particularly active in the morning
Nocturnal Geckos
NocturnalAround outdoor lights (hunting attracted insects), under stones during the day.
Best time: Night 8pm-midnight near lights
Introduced Tortoises
Very RarePrivate properties only, almost non-existent population. No reliable observation.
Status: Not recommended for naturalist observation
Anecdotes & Fascinating Facts
The Iguana Saved from Extinction
The Lesser Antillean iguana (Iguana delicatissima) is classified as "Critically Endangered" by the IUCN. Saint-Barth hosts one of the last viable populations (500-800 individuals), making the island a crucial sanctuary for the species. A strict protection program prohibits their capture and encourages respectful cohabitation.
No Native Tortoises
Unlike many tropical islands, Saint-Barth has never had a native population of land tortoises. The dry climate and lack of permanent freshwater are not suitable for these reptiles. The rare tortoises observed are all introduced pets or escaped from captivity.
Endemic Mini-Geckos
The sputator dwarf gecko (Sphaerodactylus sputator) measures only 4-5 cm and is one of the smallest reptiles in the Caribbean. These nocturnal mini-geckos hunt micro-insects and can live in tiny spaces (rock cracks, tree bark).
Chameleon Anole
The Saint-Barth anole (Anolis schwartzi) can slightly change color depending on its environment, going from bright green to grayish brown. Males display their bright orange throat (dewlap) to attract females and intimidate rivals - a fascinating spectacle to observe!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there wild land tortoises in Saint-Barth?
No, there is no native wild population of land tortoises in Saint-Barthelemy. Some introduced tortoises (red-eared sliders, Greek tortoises) can be seen in private gardens, but these are escaped or released pets, not natural species of the island.
What land reptiles can I observe in Saint-Barth?
Lesser Antillean iguanas (protected endangered species), the Saint-Barth anoles(very common small green lizards), various nocturnal geckos, and other species of endemic lizards. Over 12 species of native terrestrial reptiles inhabit the island.
Where to see iguanas in Saint-Barth?
The best spots are: Colombier trail, Grande Vigie, Gouverneur beach, rocky areas of Flamands and Toiny. Observe in the morning (7am-10am) when they are warming up in the sun. Keep at least 5 meters distance.
Are Saint-Barth iguanas dangerous?
No, iguanas are completely harmless if not provoked. They are herbivores and very shy. Never try to touch or feed them: it is strictly prohibited (protected species) and can stress them or modify their natural behavior.
Can I bring a land tortoise to Saint-Barth?
Strongly discouraged. Introducing exotic species threatens the fragile ecological balance of the island and endemic species. Strict regulations govern the import of animals. Favor observing native reptiles rather than introducing foreign species.
Tips for Observing Reptiles
Respect Protected Iguanas
Maintain at least 5 meters distance. Never touch, never feed. Lesser Antillean iguanas are critically endangered.
Best Times
Reptiles active early morning (7am-10am) for thermoregulation. Nocturnal geckos are seen in the evening (8pm-midnight) near outdoor lights.
Slow Movements
Reptiles flee from sudden movements. Approach slowly, crouch down, avoid pointing directly at them.
Respectful Photography
No flash (stresses animals). Use a zoom rather than approaching. Never move stones or branches to "see better".
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