A Protected Jewel of the Dune Ecosystem
Chamaeleo chamaeleon is one of the most fascinating inhabitants of the dune ecosystems around Rota, Costa Ballena, and Chipiona. With its ability to change color, move its eyes independently, and capture insects with lightning-fast precision, this reptile is a master of adaptation and camouflage.
In the dune ecosystem, the Mediterranean chameleon plays a crucial ecological role. As an insectivore, it helps control insect populations, acting as a natural form of pest control that benefits the health of dune plants and the overall balance of the ecosystem. Chameleons also serve as both predator and prey, linking different levels of the food web. Their need for dense vegetation and sandy soils for nesting means that their presence is a strong indicator of a healthy, functioning dune environment.
Recent studies in Spanish dune systems have shown that chameleons not only thrive in these habitats but also contribute to the regeneration and stability of the dunes. By keeping insect populations in check and moving through the vegetation, they support the natural processes that allow the dunes to recover from storms and human impact. Their continued survival here is a testament to the importance of protecting these unique coastal landscapes — not just for the chameleons, but for the rich web of life they help sustain.
Despite being classified globally as Least Concern by the IUCN due to its wide distribution, the Mediterranean chameleon faces significant local threats, especially from habitat loss caused by urban development, agriculture, and road construction. Illegal collection for the pet trade and predation by domestic animals also put pressure on local populations. Because of these threats, the chameleon is protected under various laws and conventions, including the EU Habitats Directive and the Bern Convention, and its disturbance, capture, or trade is prohibited in several countries. These protections are essential for ensuring the species’ survival in vulnerable coastal habitats.