Indian Pangolin (Manis crassicaudata)
Conservation Status:
- IUCN Red List: Endangered
- Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I
The Indian Pangolin is a large, scaly anteater found across parts of India and South Asia. Of the eight species of pangolins found globally, two occur in India — the Indian Pangolin (Manis crassicaudata) and the Chinese Pangolin (Manis pentadactyla).
- It is known for its protective armor of keratin scales arranged in 11–13 dorsal rows. The male is generally one-third larger than the female. A key identifying feature is the terminal scale on the underside of its tail (absent in the Chinese pangolin).
Major Threats:
- Poaching and illegal hunting for meat and scales
- Scales are used in traditional medicines in China and Vietnam
- Significant seizures have been reported:
- Over 3,000 pangolins poached (2009–2013)
- Around 5,000 kg of scales confiscated
- Lack of population data intensifies conservation challenges
Conservation Initiatives
- TRAFFIC and WWF-India are actively involved in mapping trade routes and raising awareness
- In 2015, a social media campaign was launched in collaboration with the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) to curb illegal trade