On World Pangolin Day, February 17, the spotlight falls on the plight of these unique creatures. Pangolins, the most trafficked mammals globally, face a grim future as their populations dwindle due to illegal hunting and the demand for their scales in traditional medicine.

According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List, several species of pangolin are considered "critically endangered".

Tiergarten Schonbrunn is taking a stand to protect these scaly anteaters and has thrown its support behind a conservation project by the Pangolin Conservation and Research Foundation (PCRF) in Namibia. The efforts aim to engage local communities and transform former pangolin hunters into rangers dedicated to researching and safeguarding these elusive creatures.

This footage was filmed and produced 15 February 2024.

On World Pangolin Day, February 17, Saturday, the spotlight falls on the plight of these unique creatures known as "pinecones on four legs." Pangolins, the most trafficked mammals globally, face a grim future as their populations dwindle due to illegal hunting and the demand for their scales in traditional medicine.

Tiergarten Schonbrunn is taking a stand to protect these scaly anteaters and has thrown its support behind a conservation project by the Pangolin Conservation and Research Foundation (PCRF) in Namibia. The efforts aim to engage local communities and transform former pangolin hunters into rangers dedicated to researching and safeguarding these elusive creatures.

Despite the challenges, there is hope. By bringing together expertise from zoos and conservation projects, there is a collective push to save the pangolins from the brink of extinction. The recent workshop in South Africa united specialists to share knowledge and strategies in a united front against the threats faced by these fascinating animals.

With pangolins at the brink of disappearing forever, the race against time continues as conservationists and advocates work tirelessly to ensure these remarkable creatures have a fighting chance for survival in a world plagued by trafficking and tradition.