Every year, on World Pangolin Day, we come together to raise awareness and celebrate the remarkable efforts being made to protect pangolins, the world’s most trafficked mammals. This year, we highlight the conservation of the Temminck’s Ground Pangolin and the dedication of the unsung heroes working tirelessly to ensure their survival.
A Species Once Thought Lost
The Temminck’s Ground Pangolin was once classified as extinct in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) until 2019, when the first successful reintroduction took place. Today, thanks to conservation efforts, these elusive creatures are slowly making a comeback. However, they remain vulnerable to extinction, primarily due to the illegal wildlife trade, electrocution from fences, and pesticide use.
With the help of organizations like the Zululand Conservation Trust (ZCT) and its conservation partners, pangolins retrieved from the illegal wildlife trade are rehabilitated and reintroduced into the wild. Manyoni Private Game Reserve serves as a release site, where these pangolins are monitored and protected, ensuring they have a second chance at life.
The Heroes Behind the Mission
The successful rehabilitation and release of pangolins would not be possible without the unwavering commitment of our pangolin monitors. These dedicated conservationists spend countless hours in the field, ensuring the well-being and survival of each pangolin.
What Does a Pangolin Monitor Do?
- Tracks and observes pangolins using special tracking devices, ensuring they adapt to their new environment.
- Walks rehabilitated pangolins daily as part of the soft release process (since pangolins do not feed in captivity).
- Weighs and monitors pangolins to ensure they are gaining weight and maintaining good health.
- Protects pangolins from environmental hazards and external threats.
Without these hardworking individuals, the dream of reintroducing pangolins to KZN would not have become a reality. Their tireless efforts help ensure the success of this conservation program.
A Success Story in the Making
Since the program’s inception in 2019, we have witnessed incredible progress:
- 16 pangolins have been rescued, rehabilitated, and released into the wild.
- 8 pangolin pups have been born—a true testament to the success of our conservation efforts!
- An expanding pangolin safe zone in Manyoni and beyond, creating a future where pangolins can thrive.
None of this would have been possible without the support of donors, sponsors, and conservation partners. Their generosity has helped fund critical resources, equipment, and personnel essential for this mission.
Looking Back to Move Forward
To celebrate World Pangolin Day 2025, we went back into our archives and found an incredible video from over four years ago—a reminder of how far we’ve come. From an extinct population in KZN to a growing, monitored population, the journey has been nothing short of inspiring.
But our work is far from over. Pangolins still face grave threats, and their future depends on continued conservation efforts. We need your help to keep this mission alive.
How You Can Help
- Spread Awareness – Share this blog and educate others about the plight of pangolins.
- Support Conservation Efforts – Donate to organizations like ZCT that work tirelessly to protect these animals.
- Say No to Illegal Wildlife Trade – Never buy pangolin products and report any illegal trade activity.
On this World Pangolin Day, let’s stand together to ensure a future where pangolins no longer need saving, but simply live as they were meant to—in the wild, safe and free.