Pangolins are arguably the most elusive species in conservation. The number one question conservationists hear is:

“How many pangolins are left in the wild?”

The simple answer: we really don’t know.

Unlike rhinos and elephants, which can be counted from the air or on foot, pangolins are solitary, reclusive, and mostly active at night. Seeing one is considered the holy grail of wildlife sightings — and if we don’t know how many exist or where they are, it becomes extremely difficult to know whether we’re winning the fight to save them from extinction.

That’s why accurate data, and fast reporting, matters so much.

And this is where Pangolert plays a vital role.

Alongside this effort, Global Conservation Force (GCF) is working with multiple reserve, anti-poaching, and law enforcement partners across Southern Africa to bolster reporting systems so that proper, ethical, and effective interventions can happen quickly when pangolins are at risk. In addition to education and outreach, GCF actively supports direct investigations, counter–wildlife trafficking efforts, and anti-poaching operations that help safeguard pangolins on the ground.

Building the Population Map

The first essential step in pangolin conservation is building an accurate population distribution map, showing where pangolins live now and where they were historically.

If you have ever seen a pangolin, that sighting (even years ago) is valuable data. Historic reports help reveal population trends over time.

When recording a past sighting, share:

• When and where you saw the pangolin

• What it was doing

• Any photos you may have taken

Each report strengthens conservation planning.

Pangolert — Securing Real-Time Data

The next way you can help is by being prepared for your next pangolin encounter.

Pangolin.Africa developed Pangolert to securely track recent sightings using WhatsApp, the most widely used communication platform across Africa.

How it works:

1. Save the number: +27 72 726 4654

2. Report securely: Your message goes to one trusted coordinator — it’s not a group chat.

3. Share details: Send the location and any photos. Additional data is stored automatically.

4. No signal? The message will send when coverage returns.

A Secure System for Conservationists

Pangolert reports feed directly into the population database. Access to the encrypted data is restricted and vetted, and shared responsibly with qualified researchers, conservation teams, and law enforcement.

The information belongs to the broader conservation effort, not to any one organization.

Reporting a Pangolin in Peril

Pangolert is also critical for emergencies, situations where pangolins are:

• Being trafficked

• Injured or sick

• In immediate danger

When reported, Pangolin.Africa works with authorities, veterinarians, and conservation partners to coordinate rescue and care.

Why Saving the Number Matters

In one case, a pangolin for sale in South Africa was reported through Pangolert by someone in the United States who saw it online. Because they knew what they were seeing, and had the number, a rescue operation was launched.

You never know when you might need it. Saving the number costs nothing, and could save a life.

Save the Pangolert number today: +27 72 726 4654

When in Doubt — Report

Whether you’re on safari, working in the field, or scrolling social media:

If you see or hear something concerning pangolins, report it to the most trusted source available from the options provided.

Your report can trigger:

• Proper intervention

• Law-enforcement coordination

• Safe rescue and rehabilitation

• Actionable conservation data

Together, through reliable reporting, responsible response, and coordinated protection, we can give pangolins a fighting chance.