A lifeless mommy chameleon brought into the South African Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre was discovered to have 44 perfectly formed eggs nestled within her. Through delicate and professional care, 18 of them hatched, giving birth to resilient green miracle babies who could have easily ceased to exist!
Johannesburg, South Africa (17 April 2025) – One year ago, the South African Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre (SAWRC) received a lifeless flap-neck chameleon whose body carried one final gift: a string of 44 perfectly formed eggs!
Determined to give these potential baby chameleons a chance at life, the eggs were gently and carefully removed and rushed to Sr. Cassy Ure at Craighall Veterinary Hospital. She stepped in to assist with her unwavering dedication and expertise.
“The odds were stacked heavily against success, but that had not stopped Sr. Cassy before.
“Months of patient incubation followed. Then, against all expectations, the first tiny hatchling emerged,” shared SAWRC.
Against all odds, and in a way that would warm the heart of any nature lover, more and more eggs began to hatch, resulting in the emergence of 18 little green, resilient babies!
These chameleons have gone on to thrive thanks to the delicate and professional care of all those involved. And a few weeks ago, the young chameleons, healthy and strong, were released into a pristine paradise.
These little lives were never meant to exist when their mother succumbed to her injuries, and yet, they are here today, climbing, camouflaging, and probably arguing over the best branch, completely unaware of the extraordinary effort that gave them a second chance!
Their survival illustrates the remarkable impact of collaboration. Huge thanks go to SAWRC, Sr. Cassy Ure, the entire team at Craighall Veterinary Hospital, Leanne Hezlett, who took over care of the chameleons for a while just before release and for selecting the perfect safe space for them at Hettie and Neels’ farm.
Teamwork made the impossible possible, and we’re in awe of what every member managed to achieve for these little lives!
Sources: South African Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre
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