A tiny Gozitan resident caught a lucky break this week, after being rescued with an injured leg and treated with the most creative of medical tools.

On Monday evening, a beautiful chameleon was found in Qala, Gozo, with an injury to its front leg. The following day, it was taken to vet Dr Pierre Camilleri, who recommended that the leg be temporarily immobilised to prevent further damage and allow time for healing. His inventive solution involved a miniature splint made from cotton buds.

Chameleons are notoriously tricky to treat, but the Nature Trust Gozo team is hopeful that this little patient, now named Jessica, will make a full recovery.

Nature Trust Malta reminds the public that all the animals they rescue, including chameleons, are protected species in Malta. It is illegal to harm them or keep them as pets. Their rescue volunteers are specially trained and licensed to handle wildlife, using dedicated equipment to ensure both the animals’ safety and their own. If you spot an injured or endangered wild animal, you can contact the Wildlife Rescue Team Malta on 9999 9505.

Want to visit Jessica and others rescues like her? Nature Trust Malta’s wildlife rehabilitation centre at Xrobb l-Għaġin, Malta, is also open to visitors, where you can meet animals currently in care, from hedgehogs to sea turtles. Entry is free, though donations are welcome, and visits must be booked in advance by emailing [email protected].

Have you ever spotted a chameleon in the wild?