In a groundbreaking initiative, the Wildlife Conservation Trust (WCT) has partnered with the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department to address the alarming plight of the critically endangered Indian pangolin. This unique project employs specially trained sniffer dogs to aid in the rehabilitation of confiscated pangolins, which are among the most trafficked mammals globally. Since its launch at the end of 2019, the project has successfully rehabilitated at least 15 pangolins in the Pench and Satpura Tiger Reserves.

The Indian pangolin, which faces severe threats from poaching and illegal trade, has been the focus of this innovative conservation strategy. The sniffer dogs are trained to detect the unique scent of pangolins, which helps locate suitable burrows that are currently uninhabited by wild pangolins. Once these burrows are identified, camera traps are deployed to confirm their occupancy by wild pangolins, ensuring that the rehabilitated animals are released into safe environments.

The initiative represents a comprehensive approach to pangolin rehabilitation, combining sniffer dogs, camera traps, and radio telemetry to monitor the animals’ post-release behaviors. This three-pronged strategy is the first of its kind aimed not only at reintegrating confiscated pangolins into the wild but also studying their adaptation and survival in natural habitats. Early results indicate that five out of the thirteen rehabilitated female pangolins have successfully mated with wild males, marking a significant step forward for the species’ recovery.

Key to the project’s success is the collaboration among WCT’s conservation biologists, veterinarians, and forest department staff. Together, they have identified critical parameters for effective rehabilitation: timely veterinary care, proper transportation, site selection, and the timing of releases. Confiscated pangolins often arrive malnourished and dehydrated, necessitating immediate medical attention to enhance their chances of survival in the wild.

The rehabilitation process involves transporting these animals in specially designed protective boxes, a method inspired by successful practices from African nations. After ensuring the pangolins are in optimal health, the team uses data from the sniffer dogs and camera traps to identify secluded mixed forests, which provide the ideal conditions for their reintegration. These sites are characterized by ample food sources, including ant and termite populations, and sufficient water availability, ensuring the pangolins can thrive in their new homes.

The deputy director of Pench Tiger Reserve emphasized the long-term benefits of this research, highlighting its potential to deepen understanding of pangolin ecology. It will also aid in determining the best forest areas for future releases and tracking the animals’ movements across different seasons, providing invaluable data for ongoing conservation efforts.

Pangolins have seen their populations decline due to rampant poaching, illegal trade, and habitat destruction. In India, both the Indian pangolin and the Chinese pangolin are listed as endangered or critically endangered on the IUCN Red List. They play a crucial role in regulating insect populations and maintaining the health of their forest ecosystems.

The Madhya Pradesh Forest Department, through its state tiger strike force (STSF), has been active in dismantling trafficking networks. Since September 2014, the STSF has registered 22 cases of pangolin smuggling and apprehended around 225 individuals involved in the illicit trade.

Reports indicate that approximately 6,000 pangolins were poached in India between 2009 and 2017, with states like Manipur and Tamil Nadu identified as major smuggling hubs. The ongoing work of the WCT and the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department reflects a critical effort to not only rehabilitate pangolins but also to combat the illegal wildlife trade that threatens their existence. As this innovative project continues, it holds promise for the future of the Indian pangolin and its ecosystem.