African animals on global threatened specia watchlist

Africa’s unique wildlife faces mounting threats, with species like the Nguru spiny pygmy chameleon, Whale shark and African Wild Dog among the endangered animals on a global ‘watch list’ compiled by Fauna & Flora, an international nature conservation group.

The 2025 list highlights 10 species at risk of extinction as conservationists work to ensure their survival against challenges like habitat destruction, climate change and hunting.

The Nguru spiny pygmy chameleon, native to the montane forests of Tanzania, is small enough to fit on a paper clip. It relies on leaf litter and low vegetation for survival.

However, its existence is being threatened by agricultural expansion, logging and illegal poaching for the pet trade….