From the pangolins.org website:
World Pangolin Day is an opportunity for pangolin enthusiasts to join together in raising awareness about these unique mammals — and their plight. Pangolin numbers are rapidly declining in Asia and Africa.
The demand for pangolins comes mostly from China, where pangolin scales are unfortunately believed to be a cure-all of sorts and pangolin flesh is considered a delicacy. In Vietnam, pangolins are frequently offered at restaurants catering to wealthy patrons who want to eat rare and endangered wildlife. There is no evidence to support claims regarding medicinal properties of pangolin scales or any other part of the pangolin.
I've only seen pangolins in the wild a couple of times in Malaysia. And then there are rumours of some in Cator Park in SE London!
Pangolins are considered to be the world's most trafficked mammal. In Malaysia they are definitely on the decline, due to large numbers being captured for restaurants. Read more on The Star 18 Feb.
The Malayan pangolin, (Manis javanica) – is Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
© Liz Price
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