Rationale
(Changed due to Same category and criteria)
Although Bradypodion transvaalense is geographically widespread, the area it occupies is restricted by its reliance on forested patches. The extent of occurrence (EOO) is large (over 48,000 km2) and it is abundant within forest patches. The species is therefore listed as Least Concern.
Distribution
Endemic to the South Africa and Eswatini [Swaziland], and found along the eastern Drakensberg escarpment and associated inselbergs (Bates et al. 2014). It occurs from the Soutpansberg range in the north, southwards through Limpopo and Mpumalanga and into the highlands of eSwatini (Tolley and Burger 2007).
There is no information on population size or trends, but the species is estimated to be stable.
Threats
There are no known substantial threats at present. However, climate model projections using the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change A2 and B2 scenarios (Houniet et al. 2009) suggest that this species could suffer a 40% loss in climatically suitable habitat in the next century.
Uses and trade
Between 1975-2009, 145 individuals were exported for the pet trade, but between 2010-2016 this figure more than doubled, to 352 individuals (UNEP-WCMC 2017). Should this trend continue, this species should be investigated for non-detriment findings.
Conservation
This species is listed in CITES Appendix II; it occurs in some protected areas. Carry out a full taxonomic/phylogenetic assessment, as this species may include cryptic taxa represented by small populations of conservation importance.
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,]
