A team of researchers from Panthera Senegal recorded the unexpected reappearance of the scaly anteater, known as giant pangolin (Smutsia gigantea). This species, not seen in Senegal since 1999, was seen again after more than two decades, generating hope among conservationists.
The discovery occurred during a camera trap study between February and May 2023 in the Niokolo-Koba National Park, Senegal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The sighting occurred on March 8 at 1:37 a.m. local time, according to the magazine African Journal of Ecology.
The giant pangolin It is one of the eight species of pangolins distributed in three genera (Manis, Phataginus and Smutsia). It is the largest, reaching up to 1.2 meters in length. This mammal is one of the most trafficked species in the world, due to the high demand for its meat and scales for their supposed medicinal properties.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) It classifies nearly all pangolin species as threatened, endangered, or critically endangered. The authors of the article highlighted the importance of systematic biodiversity inventories and protected areas in West Africa.
Historical context and conservation of the pangolin
The last sighting of the giant pangolin in Senegal was in the Niokolo-Koba National Park during a similar study, 24 years ago. This discovery revived hope for the conservation of this species in the region. Specialists emphasize the importance of systematic biodiversity inventories and the critical value of the large protected areas of West Africa.
Although giant pangolins were believed to be locally extinct in Senegal, They still inhabit the humid forests of western and central Africa. However, deforestation and animal trafficking pushes them to a vulnerable conservation status. Experts hope its reappearance in Senegal will have “huge ramifications for conservation efforts in the region.” Raising awareness of their existence could improve your chances of survival.
The role of protected areas
The scientists highlighted the crucial role of protected areas such as the Niokolo-Koba National Park for the survival of endangered species. This site is not only home to rich biodiversity, but also serves as a refuge for threatened species. The observation of the giant pangolin in this area reinforces the importance of the proper protection and management of these spaces.
This rediscovery also brings to mind the devastating impact of poaching and animal trafficking. The high demand for pangolins for their supposed medicinal properties It caused massive exploitation, causing its drastic decline. Local authorities plan to establish a plan that combines conservation measures and public awareness to preserve them.
*The creation of this content was assisted by artificial intelligence. The information was provided and reviewed by a journalist to ensure accuracy. The content was not generated automatically.
