PANGOLINS are unique, rare, solitary, nocturnal mammals that survive predominantly on a diet of ants and termites. Currently, eight species have been reported, with four each from the continents of Africa and Asia.

The reclusive species is showing an alarming decline in its populations and sub-populations across Asia and Africa due to relentless poaching that’s a result of high international demand for their scales and for bush meat across China, Hong Kong and South-East Asia.

There is no scientific backing for the so-called medicinal properties of pangolin scales, by the way.

It’s no wonder that pangolins have been described as the most persecuted wild mammals on the planet.

If no effective conservation measures are taken immediately, the species is destined for extinction in both Asia and Africa.

The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species has listed the species as being in urgent need of comprehensive conservation efforts to avoid becoming extinct in the next two decades.

Asian countries need to work jointly in cracking down on illegal wildlife markets. A multination initiative among the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation nations, Asean, and China to protect forests, wildlife and biodiversity could help in successful pangolin conservation across South and South-East Asia.

SAIKAT KUMAR BASU

Lethbridge, Alberta

Canada