Zoo

Zoo Pangolin Welfare: Extreme Husbandry Challenges

Pangolins are notoriously difficult to maintain in captivity, with poor welfare records and high mortality in collections that attempt to keep them.

Key Facts

All eight pangolin species are threatened with extinction due to illegal hunting
Zoo mortality rates for pangolins have historically been very high due to their specialist diet and stress sensitivity
Pangolins feed almost exclusively on ants and termites, which are difficult to replicate in captivity
Several major zoos have discontinued pangolin keeping due to welfare and mortality concerns

Welfare Considerations

The welfare record of pangolins in captivity is poor, with high stress, refusal to eat, and early death common. The case for keeping pangolins in zoos must be weighed carefully against welfare costs and conservation benefit. In-situ conservation is likely more effective.

What You Can Do

Support pangolin anti-poaching organisations and habitat conservation funds
Advocate for rigorous welfare assessment before zoos acquire pangolins
Engage with the IUCN Pangolin Specialist Group on captive management guidelines