Wildlife

Pangolin Welfare: Most Trafficked Mammal

Pangolins are the world's most trafficked mammal, with all eight species under threat from poaching for scales and meat.

Key Facts

Over one million pangolins were trafficked between 2000 and 2013
Pangolins curl into a ball when threatened — this makes them easy to collect but does not protect against humans
All eight pangolin species are now listed on CITES Appendix I prohibiting commercial trade
Pangolins are solitary, insectivorous animals that do very poorly in captivity

Welfare Considerations

Pangolins trafficked live experience extreme stress from captivity, handling, and transport. Their specialized diet of specific ant and termite species cannot be replicated in most captive settings, causing malnutrition and death within weeks. Confiscated animals rarely survive rehabilitation. The welfare cost is compounded by population collapse affecting the ecosystems that pangolins regulate through pest control.

What You Can Do

Never purchase pangolin products including traditional medicine containing pangolin scales
Support anti-trafficking organizations including Save Pangolins and Wildlife Justice Commission
Advocate for stronger enforcement of CITES Appendix I trade prohibitions
Report any suspected pangolin product sales to wildlife crime authorities