Rare and endangered species protected on Chumbe include the following:

• Coconut crabs (Birgus latro) are the largest land-living crabs in the world. They can grow up to 1 metre (3 ft 3 in) in length (leg to leg) and weigh more than 4 kg (9.0 lb). Almost lobster-like in appearance, these slow-moving crabs have considerable pincer strength, can climb coconut trees and crack open coconut shells. Unfortunately, coconut crabs are hunted for their meat and as fish bait, resulting in them becoming locally extinct in areas close to human settlements, such as Zanzibar. They are listed as vulnerable by the IUCN Red List. As regional research into these crabs is limited, Chumbe Island is a crucial study base for international and domestic researchers.
• The Aders’ duiker (Cephalophus adersi) is Africa’s smallest and most distinctive
  mini antelopes, readily distinguished by the wide white band across the rump. It is categorised as vulnerable by the IUCN Red List. Chumbe translocated this population to the island in the early 2000s for their protection in the Forest Reserve. Like other duikers, the body shape is adapted for easy movement through dense undergrowth, being small and stocky, with large hindquarters, an arched back, relatively short legs, and pointed hooves. Both sexes have short pointed horns.
• Roseate terns (Sterna dougallii) are rare migratory coastal seabirds
  in Zanzibar. They are similar in size to common terns (Sterna hirundo) but have long, white tail-streamers, a black cap and a black beak with a reddish base. In summer, adults have a pinkish tinge to their underbelly (which gives them their name).
• Green turtles (Chelonia mydas) are the second largest marine turtle species. Their name comes from the colour of their fat, not their shell as commonly believed. Their beak is sharp and finely serrated, perfectly adapted for grazing in seagrass beds and scraping algae off hard surfaces. They are listed as endangered by the IUCN Red List.