[7] The island is now also free of forest burning and the presence of goats, which was a major factor in the initial decline of the species.

[9] There are some other Fijian islands where evidence of the species has been recorded: Deviulau, Waya, Monuriki, Monu, Qalito (possibly extinct), Yaquaga, Yadua, Yaduataba and Malolo Levu.

[1] A small protected forestation area was created recently on Malolo Levu for the last few crested iguanas that were found on that island.

Brachylophus vitiensis is distinguished by its larger size growing to 75 centimetres (30 in) in length and weighing as much as 300 grams (0.66 lb).

[3][10] It is further distinguished by the presence of a taller spiny "crest" on its back with spines as long as 1.5 centimetres (0.59 in) running from the nape of the neck to the base of its tail.

The Fiji crested iguana is a diurnal creature that tends to live under the shade of trees and will seek sunlight/heat on days with cool temperature.

If its white bands or its sudden change in colour has not intimidated its predator, it will ultimately resort to an expansion of its neck, a bobbing of its head, and it will pounce itself towards the potential threat.

[12][13] Fiji crested iguanas are predominantly herbivorous feeding on the leaves, fruits, shoots, and flowers from trees and shrubs.

[11] The biggest threat the Fiji crested iguana faces is habitat loss due to fires, storms, agricultural development, and competition from feral goats.

[17] The vegetation on the island during this time was severely depleted by a combination of grazing and fires used to drive goats for ease of capture.

[17] After the discovery of the Fiji crested iguana, the island was declared a sanctuary and all but a few goats were removed and fires banned.

[19] A secondary threat is introduced predators in the forms of rats, mongooses, and cats which prey on the Fiji crested iguana and its eggs.

[19] In order to protect iguanas in the sanctuary from diseases and parasites, it is not permitted to return to the island any lizard that has been removed.

Due to the removal of the goats, forest area was increased by 10–20% since 1980, which means more resources for the Fiji crested iguana and a larger environment.

A major threat to the Fiji crested iguana is posed by introduced predators such as feral cats, rats, and mongooses.