In a remarkable event, a female casque-headed iguana at the Exotic Zoo in Telford, UK, gave birth to eight healthy hatchlings without ever mating with a male. This rare phenomenon is an example of an Iguana Virgin Birth.
Announced on September 9, 2025, this rare ‘virgin birth’ through parthenogenesis has captivated scientists and zoo staff. They call it “one of the rarest events in the animal kingdom.” This Iguana Virgin Birth phenomenon highlights nature’s ability to surprise. It also offers insights into reptile reproduction.
What Is Parthenogenesis?
Parthenogenesis is a natural process where unfertilized eggs develop into embryos, creating offspring that are genetic clones of the mother. In the case of the Iguana Virgin Birth, the female iguana produced eight hatchlings. They are all mini-versions of herself, without any male contact. Scott Adams, director of the Exotic Zoo, told CBS News, “When we confirmed the eggs were fertile, our jaws hit the floor.” The hatchlings are thriving in a climate-controlled reptile nursery.
A rare “virgin birth” at a zoo in England has stunned keepers as an iguana produced eight hatchlings without a male partner. pic.twitter.com/lcsZNiyj33
— USA TODAY (@USATODAY) September 9, 2025The iguana laid fertile eggs in late August 2025, surprising keepers who noticed the unusual event. Adams described it as “exciting but unexpected,” noting that the hatchlings are “mini-mum clones” of their mother. The Iguana Virgin Birth event at the Exotic Zoo is set to display the iguanas publicly soon. It offers a chance to educate visitors about genetics and conservation. This is one of the few documented cases of parthenogenesis in zoos worldwide.
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This ‘virgin birth’ is significant for science and conservation. Casque-headed iguanas, native to Central and South America, face threats like habitat loss and poaching. Parthenogenesis, though rare, shows how some species can reproduce under challenging conditions. The event also sparks curiosity about reptile biology and evolution. As noted by Adams: “It’s a powerful reminder that life finds a way.”
Another case of parthenogenesis occurred at Battersea Park Children’s Zoo, where an Eastern Casquehead Iguana named Izzy hatched in August 2025. Such events, like the Iguana Virgin Birth at Exotic Zoo, are rare but highlight the resilience of certain reptile species. This includes green iguanas, which can also reproduce asexually, per Biology Insights.
