Creating Awareness for the Plight of the Pangolin!
For wildlife enthusiasts the sighting of a pangolin in its natural habitat is a “once in a lifetime” experience. Tragically though, the pangolin ranks among the most trafficked mammals globally. This shy, scaly creature, reminiscent of a pinecone and artichoke hybrid, inhabits both Africa and Asia. All eight species of pangolins are currently at risk of extinction.
Understanding Pangolins
The highest demand for pangolins comes from Asia, with increasing interest from Africa. These animals are captured for their scales and skins, putting them in severe danger. The keratin plates that cover their bodies serve as a protective armor against natural predators, but unfortunately, this protection fails against human threats.
Pangolins are entirely harmless, yet they face significant risks from habitat loss, poaching, electrocution from fences, and stress. These creatures are found across Southern and East Africa, thriving in savannah woodlands and Kalahari dune ecosystems.
Typically solitary, pangolins only come together to mate. They are primarily nocturnal, though they can be active during the day in the Kalahari due to cooler nighttime temperatures. To conserve energy, they often hide in burrows or under rocks, making them incredibly hard to spot.
Pango Experiences
As a family, we’ve been fortunate to explore many of the iconic game reserves in Africa. We’ve seen and experienced an abundance of game over the years, but the pangolin is still a sighting that I yearn for.
Holly invested much of her time into researching their behavior in their natural habitat. After many years in the bush she had her surreal moment at Talamati Bushveld Camp in Kruger National Park whilst Andy and her diligently watched the waterhole at night.
While working at Malawi’s Majete Game Reserve, Dylan had the opportunity to engage with these extraordinary animals on a different level. He helped with the rescue and rehabilitation of poached pangolins from local communities.
I’ve had the mixed fortune of monitoring these incredible mammals myself. The pangolins I’ve encountered were either rescued from surrounding communities or confiscated from poachers. It’s surprising how many people still ask what a pangolin is. Raising awareness and educating the public is vital to saving this iconic species.
Our Commitment to Conservation
As a family, we’ve developed a deep passion for these unique mammals. We have committed to help with their protection and rehabilitation through the sale of our Pango Products. In support of this cause, 20% of every online sale goes to the Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital and Rehabilitation Facility.
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Special thanks to our friend Tracey Hadiaris for designing the fantastic “Pango” logo!
About the author : Bev Blew
Born and schooled in Zimbabwe, now living in the beautiful Garden Route in South Africa. My love of travel became evident when I completed university, bought a backpack and a gap year turned into a four year adventure. During the entire time I wrote diary after diary. I still have them collecting dust in my study. With the “invention” of digital cameras I progressed over the years to publishing my diaries and photographs in family photobooks. The next step – a blog.
