GaaviBloggaavi.com
Back to blogs

pangolins

pangolins

Pangolins are among the most heavily trafficked mammals in the world, and recent conservation efforts are increasingly using DNA mapping techniques to trace illegal trade routes and identify trafficking hubs.

Pangolins

Scientists are increasingly using DNA mapping techniques to trace illegal wildlife trade networks and identify major pangolin trafficking hubs, as pangolins remain among the world’s most heavily trafficked mammals.

About Pangolin

Pangolins are unique mammals known for their distinctive protective covering and specialized diet.

Key Characteristics

  • Only mammals fully covered with keratin scales

  • Nocturnal and solitary in nature

  • Toothless mammals

  • Have a long, sticky tongue to feed on ants and termites

  • Known as “scaly anteaters”

  • Defensive behavior: roll into a tight ball when threatened

Species Found in India

Out of the 8 global species, India has 2:

1. Indian Pangolin

  • Distribution: Found across most of India south of the Himalayas (except much of the North-East)

  • IUCN Status: Endangered

2. Chinese Pangolin

  • Distribution: Found in Assam and eastern Himalayan region

  • IUCN Status: Critically Endangered

Habitat

Pangolins are typically found in:

  • Tropical forests

  • Grasslands

  • Agricultural landscapes

  • Subtropical regions

  • Burrowing environments (they dig deep underground burrows for shelter)

Legal Protection Status

Both species are strictly protected:

  • Wildlife Protection Act 1972: Schedule I (highest protection level)

  • CITES Appendix I: prohibits international commercial trade

Threats

Pangolins face severe survival threats due to:

  • Illegal wildlife trafficking (scales used in traditional medicine)

  • Habitat destruction

  • Poaching

  • Cross-border smuggling networks

Significance of DNA Mapping in Conservation

DNA-based tracking helps:

  • Identify geographic origin of seized pangolins

  • Map trafficking routes and networks

  • Link illegal trade hubs across countries

  • Support enforcement agencies in wildlife crime investigations

Conservation Importance

  • Pangolins play a key ecological role by controlling insect populations

  • Their decline disrupts ecosystem balance

  • They are considered flagship species for anti-trafficking enforcement efforts

Conclusion

Pangolins, protected under the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 and listed under CITES Appendix I, are critically endangered due to illegal trade. Modern tools like DNA mapping are becoming crucial in identifying trafficking networks and strengthening global conservation efforts.