Wild Pangolin Welfare and Trafficking Crisis

Pangolins are the most trafficked mammals in the world, with all eight species now threatened. The welfare harm caused by trafficking is compounded by poor survival rates in captivity.

Key Facts

All eight pangolin species are protected by CITES Appendix I, banning international trade
An estimated one million pangolins were trafficked in the decade to 2019
Pangolins stress extremely easily in captivity and most die within weeks of capture
Live pangolins are transported in cramped conditions without food or water for days
Pangolin meat is a luxury item in parts of Asia and scales are used in traditional medicine
No pangolin scale product has proven medical efficacy despite widespread use

Welfare Considerations

Pangolin trafficking causes extreme welfare harm. These solitary, stress-sensitive animals are captured, crammed into sacks or bags without food or water, and transported for days to markets where they die or are killed. Survival in captivity is almost zero, making all trafficked pangolins effectively condemned to death after days of severe suffering. Demand reduction in consumer markets is the most direct lever for reducing this welfare crisis. Law enforcement is important but insufficient given the scale of trade.

What You Can Do

Never purchase pangolin products including meat, scales, or derivative items
Support demand reduction campaigns targeting pangolin markets in high-consumption countries
Donate to anti-trafficking enforcement and pangolin conservation organisations
Advocate for stricter penalties for pangolin trafficking in range and consumer countries
Share information about pangolin welfare harm to reduce demand through consumer awareness