Pangolin Research Paper

CHAPTER I INTRODUCTION 1.1 General background on Pangolin

Pangolins are small, shy, nocturnal, solitary, burrowing and scaly mammals that are native to Asia and Africa (Suwal, 2011). A total of eight species of pangolin is found around the world, among which four species belong to Asia and the remaining four to Africa. The name pangolin comes from a Malayan phrase “Pen gulling” which means rolling ball (Kaspal, 2009). Pangolins, often referred to as “scaly anteaters” have no teeth and they use their long tongue to prey upon ants and termites. They are found to live in variety of habitats that include tropical rainforests, subtropical and deciduous open forests, grasslands, thick bush, wooded shrubby slopes and steeps (Suwal, 2011). These

They have been listed under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) Appendix II (Cambodian workshop) and as an EDGE (Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered) species. Furthermore, a zero export quota has been passed by CITES, that imposes bans upon commercial trade in Asian species of pangolin (Conservation, 2011). However, research and other scientific studies are allowed with permit from the authority. No such quota has been passed for African pangolins but permits are still required. (Cambodian workshop). Also, two Asian species of Pangolin Manis pentadactyla (Chinese pangolin) and Manis javanica (sunda pangolin) have been as critically endangered and the remaining two Asian species Manis crassicaudata (Indian pangolin) and Manis culionensis (Philippine pangolin) have been listed as endangered under the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) Red List of Threatened Species. (Cambodian workshop). However, the four species of African pangolin have been listed as

The local name given for pangolin is salak and these two species are referred to as kalo salak and rato salak. Chinese pangolin are distributed across Taplejung, Illam, Panchthar, Sindhuli, Ramechap, Annapurna conservation Area, Makalu - Barun conservation Area, Nagarjun, Sundarijal, Barabise and Baglung, Panchthar ,Kavre (Thapa et.al.,2014). Indian pangolin can be found in the lowland areas of southern and western Nepal (Baral and Shah 2008), Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve in the west and Bardia National Park, Chitwan National Park and Parsa Wildlife Reserve and Banke National Park(Baillie et.al.,2014). Reports suggest that pangolin are also found in several areas of Kathmandu such as Sitapaila, Phutung, Ichangu, New Baneshwor, Imadol, Kirtipur, Lalitpur, Dillibazar, Gyaneshor, Jawalakhel, Taudaha and Naikap (Suwal, 2011).

Pangolins are protected under the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act, 1973.

Table 1.1 : Differences between Chinese pangolin and Indian pangolin

S.N Chinese pangolin Indian pangolin

1 Prefers sub-tropical regions (1000m- 2000 m). Prefers tropical regions (Below 1000m).

2 Smaller (Length:70-100 cm) in size and weight (2-8 kg). Bigger than Chinese pangolin in size

(Length: 100-120 cm ) and weight (8-9 kg).

3 External ears are well developed External ears are not