Chinese Crocodile Lizard

The Chinese crocodile lizard has existed for over 100 million years, predating the extinction of dinosaurs by 40 million years. Today, it is the only remaining species within the Shinisauridae family. Much like the giant panda and the Chinese giant salamander, this species is considered a living fossil and is important to scientists studying the evolutionary history of reptiles.

However, fewer than 2,000 Chinese crocodile lizards remain in the wild. Their habitats are being destroyed by human activities such as logging, mining, road construction, and agriculture. Furthermore, many fishermen use destructive methods like electrofishing and poisoning, which pose a significant threat to wild populations. While China has established nature reserves for the Chinese crocodile lizard, illegal poaching still occurs outside these protected areas.