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
Cederberg Complex Fire Update
The wildfire in the Cederberg, which started on 22 December, continues to be actively managed by firefighting agencies. The affected area is now measured at just over 34 000 hectares. While large sections of the fire are contained, the fire is not yet fully contained, and multiple active fire lines remain, particularly in mountainous and inaccessible terrain.
Hit Reset in the Heart of Nature
This summer season, trade traffic for mountainous views, beautiful nature backdrops, and the sweet sound of animals in their natural habitat. Let the birds welcome you with their chirpy songs and allow the serenity of waterfalls to be your white noise when you need a moment to unwind and relax.
CapeNature engages George community on Outeniqua Nature Reserve fees
CapeNature will introduce a conservation permit fee at Outeniqua World Heritage Site and Nature Reserve from 15 December 2025, as previously announced. All revenue generated through the fee will contribute to maintaining and conserving the reserve, ensuring it remains safe, clean, and enjoyable for all visitors.
Call for Nominations to serve on the CapeNature Board
CALL FOR NOMINATIONS TO SERVE ON THE CAPENATURE BOARD
(TWO APPOINTMENTS EFFECTIVE MARCH 2026 AND ONE APPOINTMENT EFFECTIVE APRIL 2026)
Green Noise climbs higher with return of Season 3
Green Noise, the acclaimed podcast series from CapeNature, is returning for its third season, promising its most immersive and thought-provoking episodes yet. Breaking away from the studio, CapeNature levelled up and recorded the entire season live and on location, atop the mountainous terrain of the Hottentots Holland Nature Reserve.
Western Cape’s conservation estate grows by 47 000 hectares
The Western Cape has added some 47 000 hectares to its conservation estate through the declaration of two new nature reserves and the expansion of two others. This significant expansion in protected areas provides space for Cape mountain zebras to breed and improves the protection of many threatened succulent plants.