Page:Natural History, Reptiles.djvu/108

100 been described and figured by Spix, in his magnificent work on the Zoology of Brazil, under five different names.

This is the common Iguana or Guana of the European colonies, a name which seems to be of Indian origin, and which was probably that by which the reptile was distinguished at the time of the discovery of America. It is said to have been common in the West Indian Isles in former years, but it seems to have disappeared, at least from Jamaica; it is possible, however, that some large species of Cyclura, an allied genus, inhabiting that island, and provincially called by the name of Guana, may have been mistaken for it.

The Green Iguana attains a length of five or six feet; its general hue is green, more or less deep, sometimes merging into blue: the sides are marked with oblique stripes of brown, edged with yellow; a line of yellow frequently appears over the shoulder; the tail is crossed by broad bands of brown, alternating with the green. In some specimens, the sides and limbs are variously clouded or spotted with brown.

The esteem in which the flesh of this reptile is held in the countries which it inhabits is spoken of by most writers who mention its existence. Delicatissima and sapidissima are among the numerous specific names which have been assigned to it. Excellent, however, as is its flavour, it is not considered very wholesome, and to persons labouring under certain diseases it is highly injurious.

In Paramaribo, where the Iguana is considered one of the most delicious animals brought to the daily market, it is always in request and sells