Why Is the Pangolin Endangered and How Can We Help ?

Amid the vast array of life that teems across our planet, one creature stands out for its uniqueness and vulnerability – the pangolin. Although covered in hard, protective scales, the pangolin is ironically one of the most endangered mammals on Earth. This article unravels the reasons behind this mammal’s precarious situation and underscores initiatives aimed at ensuring its survival.

The unique characteristics of the pangolin

Physical attributes

The pangolin has several distinctive features, with its most noticeable being its coat of large, overlapping scales. These are made up of keratin, thus serving as a protective armour against predators. When threatened, a pangolin can roll itself into a near-impervious ball with its sharp-edged scales acting as an effective deterrent.

Diet and ecological role

Besides their appearance, pangolins also play an vital ecological role. Being insectivorous, they consume about 70 million insects per year, contributing significantly to soil health and nutrient dispersion. The potential loss of these natural exterminators could have a profound impact on environmental balance.

After delving into what makes this creature unique, it is crucial to understand why this remarkable species finds itself on the brink of extinction.

The threats facing pangolins

Poaching and illegal trade

Intricately linked to the plight of pangolins is their status as one of the most trafficked mammals worldwide. Their keratinous scales fetch high prices in certain Asian markets where they are used in traditional medicine or displayed as status symbols. Moreover, their meat is considered a delicacy in some cultures which contributes to further demand.

Covid-19 context

The recent Covid-19 pandemic has cast an unfortunate spotlight on the pangolin. Researchers suggest that these mammals could have served as an intermediary host for the virus, leading to their increased stigmatization and demand, despite being a critically endangered species.

The next section will delve deeper into the role of poaching in decimating pangolin populations.

The role of poaching in the decline of pangolins

Extent and impact

Poaching is a major threat to pangolins, with certain communities specializing in pangolin hunting due to growing demand from China and Vietnam. Despite international and national protection laws, corruption and lax law enforcement make these measures ineffective. Each year, approximately 20 tonnes of pangolins or their body parts are seized by authorities – a testament to the severity of this illegal activity.

Following this exploration of poaching’s devastating effects, let’s turn our attention towards international trade’s impacts on the survival of pangolins.

International trade and its impacts on pangolins

The lucrative market

Illegal wildlife trade has become increasingly profitable due to high demand for exotic animal products. With the escalating prices fetched by pangolin scales and meat on black markets, it comes as no surprise that they are heavily targeted. This relentless exploitation has resulted in two species – Indian and Chinese pangolins – becoming critically endangered.

Now that we’ve examined some major threats faced by this unique mammal, let’s shed light on conservation efforts intended to pull it back from the edge of extinction.

The conservational efforts to save pangolins

Organizational initiatives

Several organizations such as TRAFFIC and International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) are actively engaged in promoting awareness initiatives, supporting local communities for sustainable alternatives, and strengthening laws against poaching.

Legal protections

Alongside grassroots efforts, the international community has also taken steps to safeguard this species. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) has listed all eight pangolin species under its Appendix I, effectively banning their international commercial trade.

Despite the bleak outlook for the pangolin, there is hope. Yet, this hope hinges on a global commitment to preserve this unique creature. Combining legislative improvements, ecological education, and genuine conservation initiatives can tip the scales in favor of our scaled friends. The continued survival of the pangolin would be a testament to humanity’s ability to protect and coexist with nature’s diverse inhabitants – a challenge we must rise to before it becomes too late.