African Animals On Global Threatened Specia Watchlist

Africas 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. Conservation efforts aim to safeguard its habitat and curb these activities.

The Whale shark, the largest fish on the planet, is found in African coastal waters such as Mozambique and Madagascar. These gentle giants, which can grow up to 18m long, are threatened by targeted fishing, accidental net entanglements and warming oceans.