Pangolins are the most heavily trafficked mammals in the world, with all eight species facing severe decline from demand for their scales and meat.
Pangolins captured for trafficking experience extreme physiological stress from handling, confinement, and transport. Their naturally defensive behavior of curling into a ball makes them easy to catch and carry but offers no protection from human exploitation. High mortality in transit means many individuals suffer for days before dying. Demand reduction in consumer markets is the most direct welfare intervention available for this heavily trafficked species.