A scaly encounter
Today I am moved to write this blog about the most trafficked animal in the world. This morning a friend phoned me up to say he (or rather his dogos) had found a pangolin on his farm. He kept it safe over night and then contacted the local rehab center for advice on the best way forward. When dealing with such critically endangered species, certain steps have to be followed.
The species is officially classified as Vulnerable, indicating that its population is in decline. This decline is primarily due to habitat loss, but more significantly, it is driven by illegal trafficking on the black market. In particular, the animal’s body parts—and especially its scales—are highly sought after in parts of Asia for use in traditional medicine.
The thing that makes these animals easy to traffic is that when faced with danger, they curl up into a ball, which makes them easy to collect. They also don't make a sound when faced with danger facilitating transport in bags and boxes.
The Temminck's or ground pangolin is one of four species of pangolins found in Africa but the only one that lives in southern, east Africa. The pangolin is a solitary, nocturnal, carnivorous mammal. They are ground dwelling and eat ants and termites. Their body, except the undercarriage is covered in moveable keratin scales and walk on their hind legs, making them look like miniature dinosaurs. These scales form a formidable shield that can only be penetrated by the powerful jaws of large predators like lions, hyenas and leopards. They have no teeth and use their exceptionally long, sticky tongue to apprehend ants and termites. The tongue can sometimes be as long as their bodies. It is muscular and used to insert into nests and holes. They have three large claws on each hand to dig into mounds. Interesting fact is that they are significantly right or left handed individuals.
This specific animal was taken to the closest specialized veterinary clinic for examination. He had been found next to an electric fence and as many individuals suffer from electrocution injuries, it was necessary to be thoroughly checked out. He was mildly dehydrated so received a drip. Radiographs and blood exams were luckily clear.
He turned out to be a male of about 1 year of age, probably a dispersing male. Pups stay with their mothers for about 2 years, when they reach sexual maturity and wander off to find their own territory.
After the all clear, he was released on the property, close to where he was found; to continue his business of finding ants and defining his property. He will be monitored as closely as possible to make sure he remains safe.
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Traditional Chinese medicine makes use of pangolin scales in formulations to enhance circulation, for gynecological problems and improve lactation. They are also used in rituals as amulets for protection and fertility.
As a tcvm practitioner there is no need for the usage of animal sourced ingredients at all. That includes rhino horn, facing a similar challenge. There are plenty herbal alternatives that have similar properties. This makes the whole situation ever more infuriating. Alas the best that we can do is lend our support where-ever possible.
Here are a few pointers if you encounter a pangolin outside of a reserve:
- Asses if the animal is in any danger. If there is a human or animal threat secure the pangolin and contact the local authorities. Please make sure that you deal with reputable individuals. The temptation may be great for low income government employees. A live animal may fetch in excess of R100000 on the black market.
- Ensure your safety first. The trafficking world can be dangerous, rather inform the police if you feel at all threatened.
- If there is no danger please make a note of the location and contact reliable authorities. https://umoyakhululawildlife.org/
- If you are in a position to support financially please consider making a donation to Umoya Khulula for the great work they do.
Traditionally pangolins symbolize hope, resilience, good luck, fertility and protection. What better reasons to protect these interesting creatures and their future.
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