The presence of the African chameleon (Chamaeleo africanus) has recently been confirmed in Greece along the coastal area of Kalogria Beach in the northeastern Peloponnese, according to an announcement by the Natural Environment and Climate Change Organization (OFYPEKA).
This marks a significant development for Greece’s biodiversity, as the chameleons were found within the protected area “Lamia and Strofylia Forest,” an ecologically important zone.
The discovery was made in early May during an educational field trip by biology students from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens. Two newborn individuals were identified, signaling the possible presence of an established population.
“Eleven years after the last confirmed sighting, we can now confirm the existence of a population in this area. The next step is to conduct further research to assess population density and demographic trends,” said Panagiotis Pafilis, a professor of Animal Diversity at the University of Athens and a board member of OFYPEKA.
Other sightings of the African chameleon in Greece
Native to sub-Saharan Africa, the African chameleon typically inhabits regions along the Nile River and its Delta. In Europe, its only previously confirmed population resides in the Gialova Lagoon in Pylos, where it was discovered in 1997. Experts believe the species may have been introduced to Greece in antiquity.
A similar sighting occurred in 2014, when three newborn chameleons were recorded on a beach in the northwestern Peloponnese, but no further evidence of an established population emerged. This year’s finding strengthens the hypothesis that a viable, self-sustaining population may now exist in a second location.
The African chameleon grows up to 30 centimeters in length (14 cm body and 16 cm tail), with a distinctive green color and rows of white or black spots along its sides. Contrary to popular belief, its color-changing ability is not primarily used for camouflage. Instead, color shifts serve purposes related to thermoregulation, physiological processes, and social signaling.
Through changes in coloration, chameleons communicate with one another, conveying intentions, stress levels, or dominance, making color change a sophisticated tool for interaction and not just survival.
Endangered species
In Greece, the African chameleon is classified as Endangered (EN) on the national Red List, with the total population estimated at just 350 individuals.
The main threats to its survival include:
- Habitat loss due to intensive agriculture and coastal development
- Road mortality, as individuals often cross roads near shorelines
- Illegal collection for the pet trade
The confirmation of a population in a new region underscores the urgent need for targeted conservation efforts, habitat protection, and further scientific study to safeguard the species in its Greek habitats, OFYPEKA notes.
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