The La Gomera giant lizard (Gallotia bravoana) is a critically endangered (CR) lizard species  known only from two separate inaccessible cliffs 2 km apart, close to the Valle Gran Rey, in the west of the island of La Gomera in the Canary Islands. This species, thought to be long extinct, was rediscovered as a living animal in 1999. The species is thought to have once ranged throughout much of La Gomera, and the present range is less than one hectare. This species is once widespread in many habitat types on La Gomera. It is now restricted to dry cliffs with sparse vegetation. 

 

Among the giant lizards, Gallotia bravoana, has one of the smallest distributional ranges. Field studies revealed that the whole population consist of 160 individuals that inhabited isolated patches of La Mérica cliff. The current population trend is increasing and the population is not severely fragmented. here is a captive population of about 120 animals. 

 

THREATS

 

The main threats to this species are predation by feral cats, and rock falls within its restricted range. The species historically declined through overgrazing, hunting, and predation by feral cats and rats.

 

CONSERVATION ACTIONS

 

Systematic monitoring

Identification conservation sites

Re-introduction

Ex-situ conservation

Education and awareness programmes

 

CONSERVATION PROGRAM

 

It is present in the Parque Rural de Valle Gran Rey. The species is protected by international legislation. A captive breeding programme has been established on La Gomera, and a species recovery plan is in place. There is a need to control cat populations in the vicinity of the remaining animals. Further surveys are needed on La Gomera within other isolated areas to determine if any more remnant populations of this species persist. The implementation of education programmes for local people has been recommended.