Nguru pygmy chameleon

The Nguru pygmy chameleon (Rhampholeon accuminatus) is a small, beautiful creature. It’s just 5.7 cm long, a characteristic feature of pygmy chameleons. Its back has sharp spines, making it unique. This minute creature is fighting extinction due to habitat loss and the international pet trade.

Classification

Population

There is no exact figure regarding the population of this chameleon. However, its population is very small, plus it’s restricted to a few square kilometers in the Nguru Mountains. Yet, its population is declining significantly as the locals continue to take trees down for timber.

Threats

The major threat facing this chameleon is habitat loss. The unregulated exploitation of Nguru’s montane forest is destroying this chameleon’s natural habitat. Given its small population restricted to just 45 km² in the Nguru Mountains, the Nguru pygmy chameleon is vulnerable to extinction whenever the environment changes. Therefore, destroying its restricted habitat due to human activities is putting the life of such an incredible species in danger.

Conservational status

The Nguru pygmy chameleon is listed in the IUCN Red List (IUCN, n.d.). In addition to that, it is currently listed on CITES Appendix II. This small creature requires more conservation strategies, including but not limited to initiating awareness campaigns in society, offering alternative economic methods to reduce the community’s reliance on timber production, and enacting strict rules to safeguard its natural habitat.

Habitat

The Nguru pygmy chameleon is endemic to the Nguru Mountains. It can be found at elevations of between 1200 and 1600 meters because it prefers cooler temperatures. Its cryptic coloration keeps it concealed from its prey as it tries to catch them.

Trade use

While deforestation and agriculture endanger the existence of Rhampholeon accuminatus, there is an unregulated export of this reptile to the United States for pet use. The extent of this trade is still unknown. But as this species loses its natural habitat, there is a danger of losing it from this planet permanently.

The Nguru spiny chameleon is in danger. The good news is that we know this situation and its consequences. Green Horizon Foundation is supporting the existence of this reptile as it’s crucial to the sustainability of the Nguru Mountain Forest. Join us to save the Nguru pygmy chameleon from extinction.