The World’s Most Trafficked Mammal
The World’s Most Trafficked Mammal: Pangolins are ancient animals that can be found in Africa and Asia. They have existed for more than 80 million years, and they are currently the only scaled mammals on the planet. Unfortunately, these insectivores also have the unfortunate distinction of being the most trafficked mammal species in the world.
When you first encounter a pangolin, you may mistake it for a two-legged armadillo. In actuality, these cute, scaled critters are more closely related to dogs, cats, and bears.
In this short post, we will examine pangolin conservation and discover more about how the illicit wildlife trade is destroying a species that formerly thrived alongside dinosaurs.
Pangolins: Walking Pinecones
Pangolins are coated from head to toe in protective scales and are about the same size as an average house cat. These have a long, counterbalancing tail that helps them to walk bipedally. They are one of the few creatures in the world that walk on two legs, much like humans and apes!
Pangolins eat ants and termites using their long, sticky tongues, which are similar to those of an anteater. They use their keen claws to dig into mounds and bark in order to find food. They are essential to local ecosystems because they aerate the soil and reduce the number of pests. In a single year, a pangolin may consume 70 million insects!
These critters, which are active at night, are timid and do not attack; they will curl up into a ball to protect themselves if they feel threatened. If you stick around, they might spray you with a skunk-like smell that is really bad in order to scare you away. If you see one on your booked safari tour, you will be very fortunate.
The illegal trade of pangolins
Unfortunately, the illegal trade of pangolins is a profitable business. Chinese traditional medicine is the primary reason for their exploitation. To put it simply, traditional medicine believes that there are some rare and exotic animals that can be used as “magical” cures for specific illnesses.
It is said that powdered pangolin claws and scales can help with inflammation, skin illness, and problems with lactation. These claims are not supported by any scientific evidence. Aside from traditional medicine, people kill them for bushmeat and as an East Asian delicacy.
Sadly, all eight species of pangolins are at risk of extinction. The environment suffers when the pangolins are no longer present. After all, they help to control the number of insects and aerate the soil.
Fortunately, China has taken pangolins off of the list of components that are permitted for use in traditional Chinese medicine. Illegal wildlife poaching, as it always has, continues notwithstanding this amendment. Efforts to safeguard wildlife in the natural habitats of pangolins and in other countries are working hard to stop unlawful hunting.
Pangolin Conservation
How can you assist? Wildlife tourism that is done responsibly is one solution. In other words, tourism that is responsible and sustainable and that protects the natural environment and the creatures that live there.
Luxury ecotourism provides you with exceptional safari experiences that benefit the amazing places you visit on your travels rather than harming them. Your payment helps fund programs that safeguard wildlife in Africa and other places. Donations and volunteer efforts are both necessary for the protection of African wildlife, and both of them require cash.
In addition, you have the option to contribute to funds that support pangolin conservation. Encourage your elected officials to support policies that promote conservation. A recent example is the bipartisan Preventing Future Pandemics Act.
In order to safeguard these harmless, scaled mammals from excessive hunting, pangolin conservation is essential. By participating in luxury ecotourism that supports effective programs, you can help safeguard them. Alternatively, you can contribute to protection funds and vote for conservation initiatives.
Engagi Safaris allows you to both experience Africa and support its growth. Get in touch with us immediately to begin organizing your eco-friendly safari.
