Befriending the three Critically Endangered pygmy chameleons in Morogoro, Tanzania

Eva Johnson Ayaro

The three pygmy chameleons (Rhampholeon acuminatus, Rhampholeon princeeai and Rhampholeon waynelotteri) are evolutionary distinct and Critically Endangered chameleons that are endemic to the South Nguru Mountains forest reserves - a key biodiversity hotspot in eastern Tanzania. These species are known to occur in only two forest reserves; R. acuminatus and R. princeeai in Mkingu nature forest reserve only while R. waynelotteri is found in both Mkingu and Kanga forest reserves. These pygmy chameleons are referred as sisters because they co-exist together in similar elevation range. Habitat loss is a significant threat to the survival of these species. Whilst they occur in forest reserves, these areas are still threatened by agricultural encroachment, wildfires, local surface mining and logging, which are likely to have serious negative consequences for the survival and conservation of these chameleons. The objectives of this project will be to: (1) determine the status of three Critically Endangered pygmy chameleons (three sisters) in Kanga and Mkingu forest reserves, (2) decrease the willingness of 1000 locals to engage in activities that threaten the survival of the target species by 50% through a behaviour change campaign, (3) restore 5-ha of degraded habitats of these chameleons in the corridor adjoining these reserves, and (4) enhance in-country capacity to protect chameleons.