Pangolins are the most trafficked animal globally, and Zambia’s pangolin population (Temminck’s Ground and White-bellied Tree Pangolins) is no exception. Together with DNPW, WCP assists in the seizure of pangolins from illegal trade nationwide.

As pangolins are more valuable to the end consumer alive than dead, many are rescued alive by wildlife authorities. However, their time in the hands of criminals often leaves them malnourished, injured and weak.

The WCP pangolin rehabilitation centre, in partnership with DNPW, provides treatment and care, giving these sensitive animals the best chance of a successful release back into the wild.

A pangolin is released into the wild, as close as possible to its original location (if known), when it has:

• recovered from any wounds or illnesses
• attained sufficient weight gain
• a healthy body condition and posture.