The pangolin is the world’s most trafficked mammal.  This shy and scaly animal, resembling a cross between a pinecone and artichoke is found in both Africa and Asia. All eight species are at risk of extinction.

If you are a wildlife fanatic and have seen a pangolin in its natural habitat you will have likely achieved a life-long dream. On every bush trip we have gone on Holly has spent hours scouring the veld in the hope of seeing her first pangolin. After much research into their movements and activity she was finally rewarded with a brief sighting one evening at Talamati Bushveld Camp in the Kruger National Park.

Dylan was the next lucky one in the family to interact with these fascinating mammals. His work at Majete Game Reserve in Malawi included the rescuing of poached pangolins held captive in neighbouring communities.

I have been extremely lucky and unlucky to have personally monitored these spectacular mammals. The pangolins I have come into contact with have come from the surrounding communities or been confiscated from poachers. Surprisingly enough many people continue to ask me what a pangolin is. The only way to save this iconic species is to educate people and create awareness.

Pangolins

The highest demand for pangolins comes from Asia and more recently Africa. Captured for its scales and now more recently for its skins, the pangolin is in great danger. The scales or plates of keratin overlap and cover the animal’s upperparts. They form a protective armor against the jaws of large predators.

Pangolins are in fact completely harmless and their protective armor is unfortunately no protection against the threat of humans. Loss of habitat, rampant poaching, electrocution through electrical fences and stress make these little mammals extremely vulnerable. Pangolins are widely distributed across Southern and East Africa in savannah woodland and Kalahari dune veld.

The pangolin is typically a solitary animal, only coming together to mate for a brief moment. They are generally nocturnal despite tending to be diurnal in the Kalahari, where temperatures are cold at night. To conserve energy, these animals spend most of their time in a burrow or hidden under rocks making them incredibly difficult to see.

Where to now?

As a family we have developed a passion for these quirky mammals and aim to assist in their protection. Our range of Pango Products is in its infancy. For the time being we will be donating between R20 and R60 to the Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital and Rehabilitation facility with the sale of every Pango Product!

Shop Now!

Thanks to good friend Tracey Hadiaris for a brilliant “Pango” logo.