Press Release: National Trust Celebrates 35 Years of Blue Iguana Conservation with a Blue Tie Dinner
On Saturday, 8th March 2025, The National Trust for the Cayman Islands (NTCI) was proud to host our first-ever, Blue Tie Dinner at Grand Old House in celebration of 35 years of Blue Iguana Conservation. The evening was a tribute to the passion, dedication and conservation of our Grand Cayman’s treasured Blue Iguana, all staff, volunteers, and partners both internationally and locally who played a vital role in the survival of this endemic species. The Blue Iguana Conservation Programme is a story of success in protecting an endemic species that was on the verge of disappearing forever and is now seen as an iconic ambassador for Grand Cayman. The story of their survival is a significant part of our natural heritage.
Guests enjoyed an evening under the stars, with a sublime dinner and wine pairing experience. Our Patron, H.E. Governor Jane Owen was in attendance at our event, joining in on the celebrations. Local musician Alejandro played the saxophone adding to the festive atmosphere. This event raised just over $17,000 and funds will go towards the Blue Iguana Conservation Programme, and funding of a new office at the Blue Iguana Conservation facility, that will be equipped with an education room, lab, incubator room, and a room dedicated to showcasing artefacts of both our natural and built heritage.
A focal point of the event was an incredible work of art on display, a custom piece by Pam Laurenson from Stoakd, as part of her melting pop collection. The stunning artwork features a Blue Iguana comprised of a mosaic of local and international stamps. This artwork will be available for auction at the National Trust’s fundraiser on 1 May 2025, tickets for the event will soon be available online. Visit our website www.nationaltrust.org.ky for more details on this event.
We extend our deepest gratitude to our Headline Sponsors: Walkers, Department of Tourism, and Gold Sponsor CUC.
The Blue Iguana is an iconic and charismatic animal. The National Trust for the Cayman Islands is proud to be custodians and caretakers of our endemic Blue Iguana, a species found only in Grand Cayman. Once on the brink of extinction, the endangered Blue Iguana is steadily increasing in population and is important to our natural ecosystem. To date, over 1,200 Blue Iguanas have been released into the wild. Our designated protected areas for the Blue Iguana include: QEII Botanic Park (home of Blue Iguana Conservation Facility), The Salina Reserve, and Colliers Wilderness Reserve.
It was a fabulous celebration to commemorate the incredible strides made in protecting our beloved Blue Iguanas! Together, let’s continue to safeguard our unique natural heritage for future generations. If you would like to make a donation or learn more about symbolically adopting a Blue Iguana please email marketing@nationaltrust.org.ky
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Photo Credit: Alice Gostick
