The giant lizard of Gran Canaria (Gallotia stehlini), an endemic species facing severe threats from invasive species, has recently been added to the International Union for Conservation of Nature's (IUCN) Red List of endangered species. This alarming classification underscores the urgent need for conservation efforts as the lizard's survival is increasingly compromised by the uncontrolled presence of the California snake, introduced in the 1990s.
Local authorities, including the Cabildo of Gran Canaria, are taking action by proposing a project to the European Union aimed at enhancing protection for this unique reptile. The initiative, named Life-Reptiles, seeks to prevent extinction and safeguard the genetic resources and phenotypic diversity of threatened lizard species in the Canary and Balearic Islands.
Veterinarian Pascual Calabuig, who coordinates surgeries for injured reptiles at the Wildlife Recovery Center in Tafira, highlights the dire situation these creatures face. The invasive California snake has become a significant predator, further exacerbating the challenges already posed by natural enemies such as domestic cats and birds of prey.
The proposed project aims to establish a network of sanctuaries to preserve endemic reptiles and develop innovative tools for detecting and controlling invasive species. By raising public awareness about the ecological importance of these lizards and the threats they face, the initiative hopes to foster a greater appreciation for the unique biodiversity of Gran Canaria.