Chinese crocodile lizard  (Shinisaurus crocodilurus)

The natural habitat of the Chinese crocodile lizard is under attack by extensive deforestation, and illegal logging now sadly threatens the newly discovered Vietnamese population (3) (6). This not only causes the streams and ponds on which the species so heavily relies to dry out, but also reduces ground cover, making the lizard more vulnerable to predation by birds, mammals and humans (6). Its unique and colourful appearance, coupled with its docile nature, have made this lizard a great favourite with collectors, and large numbers were exported for the pet trade in Europe and America in the mid-1980s (3). This species is also still widely used in traditional Chinese medicine, since its ability to remain immobile for hours, occasionally days, led to the belief that it could cure insomnia (5) (6). Thus, by 1999, habitat destruction and hunting had reduced known Chinese population sizes to an estimated 3,000 individuals, with some sub-populations reduced to fewer than just 20 lizards (3). However, comprehensive studies are hampered by the lizard’s secretive behaviour and the rugged terrain of its habitat, and its status therefore remains relatively uncertain (6).

In January 1990, following requests from German conservation authorities, the Chinese crocodile lizard was listed on Appendix II of CITES, which limited the numbers that could be legally exported from China (3) (6). From that time on, virtually no wild-caught specimens have been imported into Europe or the United States (6). The species also now receives full state protection in several areas of China (3). Fortunately, many collectors who obtained imported specimens before restrictions have established captive breeding programmes, helping to contribute to the conservation of the species (3). The North American Regional Studbook for the Chinese crocodile lizard was published in 1995 and 1998 and continues to be maintained at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo (2). This helps preserve genetic diversity within captive populations, which provide a buffer against extinction and may one day be reintroduced back into their native home.