Biodiversity Crime in the Western Cape: the Threat to Our Indigenous Reptiles
In this series on biodiversity crime, we take a closer look at our indigenous fauna. Much of the illegal harvesting and trade of indigenous reptiles is driven by the demand for exotic pets, both locally and internationally. These animals are often captured in the wild, causing damage to the targeted animals as well as their natural habitats and ecosystems.
Capture methods are often inhumane, leading to injury or death. The Humane Society of the United States research into the reptile pet trade showed that, in general, 90% of all reptiles captured in the wild will die within their first year of captivity. It is important to remember that these reptiles are protected by law, and it is illegal to collect, trade or possess them without the necessary permits. Wild animals should be left in the wild.
Of the reptiles of the Western Cape, the most targeted for trade are indigenous lizards and tortoises. South Africa is home to twelve land tortoise species, nine of which occur in the Western Cape. These reptiles are a unique and vital part of our province's biodiversity. They play a crucial role in maintaining the delicate balance of ecosystems.
CapeNature is committed to protecting the unique and diverse biodiversity of the Western Cape at both a species level and at a broader ecosystem level. CapeNature works actively with partner organisations in law enforcement as well as officials at ports of entry and landowners.
We urge the public to help us combat biodiversity crime by reporting any suspicious activity related to the illegal collection and trade in indigenous succulent plants and reptiles to the nearest police station or CapeNature on 087 087 9262 or contact the CRIME STOP TIP-OFF-LINE on 086 00 10111.
Angulate Tortoises
Armadillo Girdled Lizards
Related News
CapeNature rangers praised for heroic rescue of stranded UK tourist
A visit to the iconic Robberg Nature Reserve and Marine Protected Area — one of the Garden Route’s most celebrated gems — turned into a life-threatening ordeal for a London tourist, and a powerful reminder of humanity of CapeNature’s field rangers. For Ms Rosalind Innes, Robberg had been a long-awaited addition to her South African travel itinerary.
CapeNature bust - R500,000 fine for illegal reptile trafficking in the Western Cape
On Thursday, 12 February 2026, a Spanish citizen Mr David Navarro Roman (41) was convicted in the Vredendal Regional Court for the illegal possession and importation of 22 Armadillo Girdled lizards (Ouroborus cataphractus) and one speckled dwarf tortoise (Chersobius signatus) from Northern Cape to the Western Cape.
How CapeNature and partners "Reverse the Red"
Reverse the Red is “a global coalition of conservation organisations and species experts working together to accelerate action to halt and reverse biodiversity loss” and every year, 7 February marks Reverse the Red day. The term stems from the effort conservations make to try and reduce the number of species on the IUCN Red List.
CapeNature goes cashless at select nature reserves
In line with its commitment to service excellence, sustainability, and safety, CapeNature is excited to announce the transition to a fully cashless payment system at five of its flagship nature reserves from 2 February 2026. The move will streamline operations, reduce queue times, and enhance the visitor experience while reducing the risks associated with cash handling.
Celebrating the cultural heritage of wetlands on World Wetlands Day 2026
As the world commemorates World Wetlands Day annually on 2 February, CapeNature joins communities across the Western Cape in recognising the deep and enduring relationship between people, culture and wetlands, celebrating under the 2026 theme “Wetlands and Traditional Knowledge… Celebrating Cultural Heritage”.
Cederberg fire recovery and visitor access
After a significant wildfire spread throughout the Cederberg Wilderness Area during the festive period, recovery and reopening efforts are now underway as CapeNature looks forward to welcoming visitors again. CapeNature has begun a comprehensive recovery programme, which will continue over the next six to twelve months.