Pangolin Trafficking:
Authorities seized 2.18 tonnes of pangolin scales in Nigeria, equivalent to approximately 1,100 pangolins.
- Pangolins also called scaly anteaters because of their preferred diet, pangolins are the most trafficked mammal in the world for their meat, scales and leather.
- These solitary, primarily nocturnal animals, are easily recognized by their full armor of scales.
- A startled pangolin will cover its head with its front legs, exposing its scales to any potential predator.
- If touched or grabbed it will roll up completely into a ball, while the sharp scales on the tail can be used to lash out.
Indian Pangolin:
- Distribution: Found in India, Bangladesh, Southern Nepal, Sri Lanka, and parts of Pakistan.
- Habitat: Adapted to various environments including deserts, tropical forests, and near human settlements.
- Physical traits: The Indian pangolin has 13 rows of sharp, overlapping scales that vary in colour depending on its surroundings.
- Conservation status:
- IUCN Red List: Endangered
- Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Listed under Schedule I
- CITES: Appendix I
