World Pangolin Day 2024: Five Lesser-Known Facts about Pangolins

World Pangolin Day 2024: Every year on the third Saturday in February, World Pangolin Day is observed; this year it falls on February 17. The day aims to raise awareness of pangolins and recommit international non-governmental organizations to the fight against the poaching of pangolins in Africa and Asia.

Unlawful activities have resulted in the removal of around one million pangolins from their natural habitats in Asian and African countries. There is a significant market demand for the scales, skin, blood, and fetuses of these remarkable creatures. Traditional medicine, food, and fashion all find various uses for these body parts.

Historical Background

Global groups annually observe World Pangolin Day to combat global pangolin poaching and increase public awareness, highlighting the unique scale-covered mammals.

On this day, pangolin enthusiasts and the general public collaborate to highlight the dire circumstances faced by these remarkable species, whose populations are rapidly declining in Asia and Africa.

Large-scale organized crime networks frequently engage in the illegal capture, smuggling, and killing of pangolins for their scales. These networks cater to the Asian traditional medicine market, where pangolin scales are highly valued for their believed healing properties, and pangolin meat is seen as a delicacy.

Restaurants serving pangolins to affluent customers who view exotic meat as a status symbol are prevalent in Vietnam, Central Africa, and parts of West Africa.

Pangolins, when threatened, curl into a tight ball to protect their vulnerable underside, making them an easy target for illegal poachers.

The Wildlife Justice Commission reported 52 seizures between 2016 and 2019, resulting in the capture and confiscation of 360,000 pangolins, equivalent to 206.4 tonnes of pangolin scales.

National Cafe au Lait Day 2024 (US): History and Five Remarkable Coffee Facts

FAQs Regarding World Pangolin Day 2024

What are the medicinal uses of pangolin?

The Yoruba tribe in Nigeria uses pangolin bones in traditional medicine to treat conditions such as rheumatism, back pain, and seizures. It is also occasionally utilized in the treatment of psychiatric disorders.

What is the significance of pangolins?

Pangolins play a crucial role in their ecosystems by controlling insect populations. A single pangolin can consume up to 70 million insects annually, contributing to soil aeration and fertility.

Ways to Participate in World Pangolin Day 2024

Create artwork featuring pangolins.

NGOs globally are using art to raise awareness about pangolin threats and promote meat refusal and conservation.

Publish an online article about pangolins.

Another way to commemorate World Pangolin Day is to conduct research and write a paper to educate others about pangolins. By spreading knowledge about pangolins, we can create a sense of urgency and advocate for similar protective measures in countries without adequate regulations while supporting governments in enforcing existing bans on pangolin exploitation.

Show support on social media.

Encourage people to pledge online to never consume pangolins or purchase products made from them. Provide information to help others make informed choices, and consider collaborating with influencers to raise awareness and garner public support for pangolin conservation efforts. Use the hashtag #WorldPangolinDay to amplify your message.

Do a Grouch a Favor Day 2024 (US): Facts About Grumpy TV Characters

Five Lesser-Known Facts about Pangolins

Pangolins are the only mammals with scales.

Pangolins are mammals with scales, valued for their supposed medicinal properties and role in fashion.

They help control insect populations.

Pangolins play a vital role in ecosystems by feeding on insects and contributing to soil aeration and fertility.

They are critically endangered.

Due to overexploitation, all eight species of pangolins are classified as critically endangered.

There are eight species of pangolins.

All eight species of pangolins are critically endangered due to overexploitation.

Pangolins and Keratin

Keratin, a protein found in pangolin scales and claws, contributes to their protective covering.

The Purpose of World Pangolin Day

To prevent pangolin extinction

The illegal capture of millions of pangolins from their natural habitats has placed these creatures in grave danger of extinction. We must urgently intervene to save these unique mammals and preserve the health of our ecosystems, preventing their extinction.

To preserve life on Earth

Pangolins are essential for controlling insect populations and contributing to soil health and fertility. Their conservation is vital for preserving biodiversity and ecological balance.

To raise awareness

Many people remain unaware of the risks associated with consuming pangolins or using them in traditional medicine. The input discusses dedicating a day to combat pangolin exploitation, raise awareness, and encourage action to protect these animals.