Up close with the most-trafficked animal in the world!

While the 24 to 100 Lions project was the focus of our return trip to Coutada 11 this June, we were also there to examine some other incredible conservation work happening there. If you're not familiar with the animal pictured above, don't be alarmed --- many aren't. It's a pangolin, and sadly, this endangered species is the most-trafficked animal in the world. Estimates indicate that over a million pangolins have been poached and trafficked over the last decade

Pangolins are highly sought after for their meat, considered a delicacy in some parts of Asia (especially China and Vietnam), and their scales, used in traditional medicine for alleged health benefits, even though these claims lack scientific backing.

The scales, made of keratin (the same material as human fingernails), are believed to possess medicinal properties in some traditional practices. These scales can fetch high prices on the black market, further fueling the illegal trade. In fact, scales can cost more than $3,000/kg on the black market.

Our partners at Zambeze Delta Conservation and Anti-Poaching have a program in place where they accept pangolins who have been rescued from the hands of poachers. The pangolins are brought into the area, rehabilitated (as most show up in bad shape due to dehydration) and are released back into the wild. Some are actually fitted for a GPS device to help aid in monitoring and research. Dan Cabela is pictured here with Willem and Tamar from the ZDC team, prepping to install a tracking device. 

Worth noting is that the hunting model in this area utilizes a "conservation fund" to help raise money for work just like this. That means funds from huntable species are going toward the protection of non-huntable species. Something to think about the next time someone questions on the statement of "hunting is conservation." 

Look for this whole story to be told on a future episode of Hard Truths of Conservation!