Predation of the critically endangered Fijian crested iguana (Brachylophus vitiensis) by the swamp harrier (Circus approximans)

Abstract

AbstractThe Fijian crested iguana (Brachylophus vitiensis) is the largest extant lizard in Fiji, where it enjoys life in the absence of any mammalian predators. On the only island where this iguana is abundant, the only predator appears to be the swamp harrier (Circus approximans), which is non‐selective in its iguana prey, catching individuals in a similar proportion to their size availability. Here we report on the first observation of a reptile being the major prey item of the swamp harrier.