Pangolin

Pangolin Latest News

Global trafficking of pangolin scales has sharply declined since 2020, primarily due to COVID-19-related disruptions, sustained law enforcement actions, and evolving smuggling tactics, according to the Wildlife Justice Commission (WJC) report.

About Pangolin

• Species: There are 8 species of pangolins: 4 in Africa (Black-bellied, White-bellied, Giant Ground, Temminck’s Ground) and 4 in Asia (Indian, Chinese, Sunda, Philippine pangolins).
• Physical and Behavioural Traits
  • Habitat: Pangolins live in tropical forests, grasslands, and agricultural areas, and are found close to human settlements. The Indian pangolin is common across India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh.
  • Diet and Ecosystem Role: They feed primarily on ants and termites, contributing to pest control and soil aeration, making them crucial for ecosystem balance.
• Threats: They are heavily targeted for illegal trade in Asia, where their scales are used in traditional medicine and meat is considered a delicacy. Additionally, habitat loss has worsened their decline.
• Conservation Status:
  • Indian pangolin is Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
  • The Chinese pangolin is listed as Critically Endangered. 
  • Both are protected under Schedule I of India’s Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. 
  • All 8 species are listed in CITES Appendix I, prohibiting international commercial trade.

Pangolin FAQs

Q1. What type of animal is a pangolin?
Ans. Pangolins are scaly, insectivorous mammals known for their unique keratin scales.

Q2. How many species of pangolin are found in India?
Ans. India hosts two species — the Indian pangolin (Manis crassicaudata) and the Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla).

Q3. What is the IUCN status of Indian pangolins?
Ans. Indian pangolin is listed as ‘Endangered’, while the Chinese pangolin is listed as ‘Critically Endangered’ on the IUCN Red List.

Source: DTE