Pangolins are the most trafficked wild mammal on Earth, with all eight species facing steep population declines from hunting and trade.
Pangolins endure significant suffering during transport in the illegal wildlife trade, with high mortality rates from stress, dehydration, and injury. Their defensive ball-rolling behaviour makes them uniquely vulnerable to collectors. Animals rescued from trafficking face severe dehydration, parasite burdens, and psychological stress. Captive survival rates are very low as their highly specialised dietary needs are difficult to replicate. Those that survive in transit often suffer long-term health consequences.