Highland Jewel at Risk: Calumma hilleniusi

Calumma hilleniusi is a microendemic chameleon restricted to the high-altitude forests of the Ankaratra massif in Madagascar. It is rarely observed and considered extremely endangered due to its tiny range and lack of formal conservation status. This species belongs to the Calumma brevicorne group but is notably smaller and confined to elevations above 1,800 meters. Males are distinguished by a prominent red spot on the rostral horn, a striking feature that sets them apart from related taxa. Its cryptic lifestyle and limited distribution make it one of the least studied Malagasy chameleons, with urgent need for habitat protection to prevent further decline.