Wild Pangolin Welfare: The World's Most Trafficked Mammal

Pangolins are the most heavily trafficked wild mammal globally, with an estimated 1 million traded illegally in the past decade. Their welfare in trafficking chains is severe, and conservation status is critical.

Key Facts

All eight pangolin species are classified as threatened or endangered due to illegal trade
Pangolins are the most trafficked wild mammal globally — over a million were poached in the past decade
They are taken primarily for their scales (used in traditional medicine) and meat in Asian markets
Pangolins in captivity have very poor survival rates — stress-related deaths occur within weeks of capture
Three African species (ground, giant, and tree pangolin) are now increasingly targeted as Asian populations decline

Welfare Considerations

Pangolin welfare in trafficking chains is among the most extreme suffered by any mammal. Animals are typically packed tightly in bags or containers, dehydrated and starved for transit lasting days or weeks. Many die before reaching market. Those sold alive experience extreme stress in artificial holding conditions — they require very specific ant and termite diets unavailable in most captive settings. Welfare rehabilitation for pangolins is extraordinarily difficult and rarely successful. Conservation is the only meaningful welfare intervention: reducing demand through education campaigns, strengthening enforcement, and establishing pangolin sanctuaries in range countries to receive confiscated animals.

What You Can Do

Never purchase traditional medicine containing pangolin scales or derivatives
Support WildAid and TRAFFIC campaigns to reduce demand for pangolin products in consumer countries
Donate to African Wildlife Foundation and Save Pangolins for anti-poaching and habitat protection
Report suspected pangolin trafficking to local authorities or TRAFFIC immediately
Advocate for stronger wildlife trafficking penalties and enforcement in consumer and transit countries