Dogs Saving Pangolins In Africa

Pangolins are the most trafficked mammal in the world with more than a million poached in the last decade.

But luckily, there are several amazing organizations working together to create a brighter future for pangolins. The Zululand Conservation Trust works hand-in-hand with the African Pangolin Working Group (APWG), and the Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital to manage the rehabilitation of confiscated animals.

Once an individual pangolin is ready for release, they undergo a multistage soft release process, which can take up to 4 months. Thereafter, they are monitored very closely using specialized satellite tracking devices to track their movements and locate them daily to check their weight, tick load and general condition. The monitoring and management of Manyoni’s reintroduced pangolins have reached a point that they require a dedicated unit for monitoring, management, and applied research.

This is where Thor, Global Conservation Force K9, joins the team and efforts! Thor is trained to track pangolins and humans. During daily operations Thor will help protect the wildlife working alongside the rangers and will also aid in pangolin research and release duties with the Zululand Conservation Trust team members.

📸 @Mike_Versteegh, @GreenLeavesProductions