Canary Islands' Long-Term Recovery Plan for Tenerife Giant Lizard

Overview

The Canary Islands government has officially approved a long-term recovery plan for the critically endangered Tenerife Giant Lizard, a species found only on Tenerife and now teetering on the brink of extinction. Once widespread across the island, the lizard now survives mainly on cliffside habitats, severely reduced by centuries of threats such as habitat destruction and invasive species.

Goals of the Plan

• Halt the species' decline by boosting population numbers
• Control ongoing threats
• Raise public awareness about the lizard's ecological importance

Key Components

• Habitat protection and measures to increase both wild and potential new populations
• Ensuring the species' survival for future generations
• Active involvement from local authorities and communities
• Conservation outside natural habitat (ex situ conservation)

Consultation and Approval

The initiative has undergone consultation with local councils, environmental bodies, and public input, with no major modifications needed before its approval.

Implementation Details

• Approved by the Canary Islands government on March 17, 2026
• Implementation will begin immediately
• Aims to reverse the downward trend of the species
• Promotes biodiversity conservation on Tenerife
• Reinforces the importance of protecting unique island ecosystems against ongoing environmental challenges