Pangolins, the only scaly, ant-eating mammals known to the world are rapidly declining globally due to illegal secret killing for their scales & meat. Also, its captive breeding yields limited success. Hence, their natural populations & habitats need to be safeguarded. As Pangolins are nocturnal, shy & solitary creatures leading a secretive life; their ecology, behavior & wild population levels are unknown. SNM intends to study these & generate awareness in the local community for its conservation.
A preliminary survey by SNM in 2016 provided vital information like villages in which Pangolin was reported in recent past. Camera traps would be set to monitor & record the Pangolin activity. A few more locations would be identified through a qualitative survey & discussion with local informants. The success rate of documentation of camera trap is very low due to the secretive nature of Pangolin & in general, they are naturally rare in occurrence. Door-to-door meetings and awareness programs would be held.
This will help us to turn poachers into the conservationists. which will be a great way to reduce hunting and poaching resulting in its conservation.