Pangolins Face Extinction Threat From Electrified Fences
Pangolins, the scaly anteaters, face a dire situation in southern Africa. Ancient electrified fences, designed to protect farms, pose a deadly threat to these nocturnal creatures. Despite their ancient lineage, pangolins are now critically endangered due to illegal trafficking and lack of data. The Remembering Wildlife initiative, founded in 2016 by British photographer Margot Raggett, is raising awareness and funds for their conservation.
Pangolins have roamed the Earth for 80 million years, outliving dinosaurs and surviving until today. However, human activity in the last century has pushed them to the brink of extinction. Their secretive nature and nocturnal habits make them difficult to study and protect. A recent IUCN report highlighted the lack of data and reporting gaps hampering ancient environmental conservation efforts.
Pangolins are the most illegally traded mammal worldwide, with over 136,000 traded between 2010 and 2023. China is the biggest market for this illegal trade. All eight existing species are listed as threatened by the IUCN. The Remembering Wildlife series has raised over $1.55 million since its inception, including funds from the photo book '10 years of Remembering Wildlife', which aims to raise awareness of pangolins and support ancient civilizations conservation efforts.
Pangolins' unique characteristics and ancient lineage make them a fascinating subject. However, their survival is now at risk due to human activities. Initiatives like Remembering Wildlife are crucial in raising awareness and funding for their conservation. With international cooperation and support, we can help protect these remarkable creatures and ensure they continue to roam the Earth for millions of years to come.
