Knysna Dwarf Chameleon In Oudtshoorn

Posted on Thu February 26, 2026.

A concerned member of the public recently brought a small chameleon to us after finding it in Oudtshoorn, well outside its natural distribution range. It has been identified as a Knysna Dwarf Chameleon, which is endemic to parts of the Western Cape and is typically associated with forested and dense thicket habitats in and around Knysna.

They do not naturally occur in Oudtshoorn. On intake, the chameleon weighed approximately 7 grams. Despite the stress of relocation, he is feeding independently. He is actively hunting and consuming appropriately sized wild caught crickets and shows a strong feeding response. An eager appetite at this stage signals encouraging physiological stability. He remains under close observation while routine health assessments continue.

Monitoring includes:
• Hydration status
• Body condition
• Behavioural response
• Stress indicators

Early evaluation helps determine whether the animal is fit for relocation or requires further intervention. Because this species exists within a defined geographic range and carries conservation considerations, we will continue to liaise with the relevant environmental authorities to determine the most appropriate course of action.

Any relocation or placement decision will follow official guidance and established species management protocols. Situations like this highlight an important principle. Indigenous wildlife should not be moved outside of their natural distribution.

When animals are found out of range, responsible reporting and proper handover to qualified facilities supports the best possible outcome. For now, this 7 gram survivor remains under professional care while the appropriate conservation pathway is determined.

 

 

Further Reading

When Words Matter Most Fri June 26, 2026

In the weeks following the devastating floods that impacted Cango Wildlife and the Greater Oudtshoorn community, support arrived in many forms. Volunteers rolled up their sleeves. Businesses donated supplies. Friends offered encouragement. Then came an unexpected message from South African motivational poet and storyteller, Fanie Walkenshaw better known as Left Sleeve. Having followed the impact of the floods, Left Sleeve reached out to Cango Wildlife with a simple but heartfelt offer. He...

Read This Article
Collaboration At The Heart Of Klein Karoo Tourism Fri June 26, 2026

Every memorable visitor experience is built upon a network of passionate people, unique attractions, welcoming accommodation, exceptional food, and businesses that believe in promoting not only themselves, but the destination as a whole. It is this spirit of collaboration that formed the foundation of the recent Big Tree Marketing Educational, hosted by Cango Wildlife in partnership with Oudtshoorn & De Rust Tourism. Held on 23 June 2026, the evening brought together leading...

Read This Article
Conservation Begins With Community Fri June 26, 2026

Protecting wildlife means protecting the ecosystems they depend on, supporting the communities that live alongside them, and inspiring people to become ambassadors for the natural world. True conservation recognises that people and nature are deeply connected, and that caring for one inevitably means caring for the other. During their recent educational programme at Cango Wildlife, students from Loop Abroad experienced this connection firsthand. While their time in South Africa was centred around...

Read This Article