Black Dragon Iguanas

Rare, Dramatically Colored Iguanas Bred on Our South Florida Farm

The Black Dragon is one of the rarest and most visually impressive iguanas we raise. Also known as the Saba Black iguana or painted black iguana, this remarkable Caribbean iguana undergoes an extraordinary transformation as it matures.

Our Black Dragon hatchlings are produced and raised here at Sam’s Giant Tortoise Farm.

An Extraordinary Transformation

The Black Dragon’s appearance changes dramatically throughout its life.

Between approximately one and three years of age, these animals generally have rich green bodies covered with sharply defined black chevrons. The contrast between the green background and bold black striping produces an exceptionally striking young iguana.

As the animal matures through approximately four, five and six years of age, the green coloration gradually darkens. Eventually, the body becomes almost completely black.

The mature animal’s distinctive features include:

• A deep-black body
• A contrasting white face
• Distinctive pink lips
• A colorful dewlap striped in white, pink and black
• Exceptionally long, high dorsal spines
• A powerful and impressive adult build
• No prominent horns on the snout

The unusually tall dorsal spines stand higher than those of many other iguanas, creating the dramatic, almost prehistoric profile that inspired the name Black Dragon.

An Exceptional Caribbean Iguana

Melanistic iguanas occur naturally on the Caribbean islands of Saba and Montserrat. The scientific name Iguana melanoderma was proposed in 2020 after researchers identified genetic, geographic and physical differences between these island populations and other green iguanas.

Because their scientific classification continues to be studied, these animals may also be described as melanistic Saba Island iguanas. Whatever terminology is used, their changing coloration, island origin and extraordinary adult appearance distinguish them from ordinary green iguanas.

Intelligent, Arboreal and Impressive

Black Dragons are intelligent, alert and active iguanas. They are skilled climbers and require a secure, well-structured enclosure with climbing areas, basking sites, strong ultraviolet lighting and sufficient room to develop.

They are omnivorous, consuming a varied diet that includes leafy vegetation, flowers, fruit and appropriate sources of animal protein, particularly while young.

With proper care and patient, regular interaction, captive-bred Black Dragons can become impressive and rewarding animals for experienced iguana keepers.

Rare Farm-Raised Availability

Wild Saba and Montserrat iguana populations face continuing environmental pressures. The animals offered here are captive-bred on our South Florida farm and are not collected from the wild.

Black Dragons remain extremely uncommon in the pet trade, and our availability is normally very limited.

Experience and Support You Can Trust

Sam’s Giant Tortoise Farm has worked with rare iguanas and tortoises for more than 40 years. Individual listings include current photographs, videos and descriptions so customers can evaluate each animal’s appearance and development.

Every purchase includes our continuing customer support and some of the best guarantees in the industry.

Explore Available Black Dragon Iguanas