Pangolin Release

We are thrilled to share the news of a rescued pangolin that was recently released onto the reserve. An unexpected surprise for our guests who got to volunteer with pangolins and aid conservation efforts. !Khamab Kalahari Reserve has put in immense efforts to create a safe and nurturing environment for all the naturally occurring wildlife in the region. In doing so, the reserve is able to contribute to the conservation of numerous endangered species.

This animal was rescued from poachers in the North West province and was promptly taken to the Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital. There, the animals got the care and rehabilitation to ensure he would be in a suitable condition for release. A special thank you to all those involved!

Given than pangolins are known to struggle when released into new environments, we are following a stringent release protocol which has been developed based on a wealth of knowledge from previous releases elsewhere in the country. We will continue to follow this protocol and monitor his condition accordingly. This will ensure that he has the best possible chance of a successful reintegration.

This release also forms part of active research undertaken by Kudu Meyer. The data will contribute to the development of pangolin release procedures and a greater understanding of these unique mammals.

Thank you to John Power and to Glen Thompson for all your help and showing us the ropes!

What makes this achievement even more extraordinary is the active participation of our valued guests in the monitoring process who got the chance to volunteer with pangolins. We’d like to thank all those who have contributed, and a special thank you to Allen Shardelow and Tessa Moore, as well as Ian and Fiona Gordon-Clarke for sponsoring the SAT tag, and Rettet das Nashorn for sponsoring the VHF tag.

We are happy to report that the animal’s progress so far has been remarkable! He has made himself at home with a seemingly endless buffet of his favorite ant and termite species. Furthermore, he has found shelter in multiple burrow sites. His condition continues to improve daily!

Given the sheer size of the reserve and the continuous hard work of all those involved, we hope it can serve as the release destination for many more pangolins fortunate enough to be saved from the illegal wildlife trade.

We look forward to keeping you informed about his successful release, and how you can help to volunteer with pangolins.

Volunteer with Pangolins on Khamab Kalahari Reserve

Pangolins, the world’s only scaled mammals, are tragically the most trafficked animal on the planet. Their unique scales and meat are highly prized in traditional medicine markets, especially in East Asia, driving them towards extinction. Poaching, fueled by this illegal trade, has decimated pangolin populations across Africa and Asia. Habitat loss is a further threat, fragmenting their already limited range. This leaves pangolins extremely vulnerable and in desperate need of global conservation efforts.

The plight of pangolins highlights the impact of the illegal wildlife trade. These shy, nocturnal creatures are brutally ripped from their habitats, often enduring horrific conditions during transport. Combating this trade requires both strong law enforcement against poachers and traffickers, and a change in consumer demand for pangolin products. Raising awareness about their situation and the dubious nature of traditional remedies, and/or to volunteer with pangolins, is crucial to shifting attitudes and safeguarding the future of pangolins.

Want to volunteer with Pangolins for yourself? Our Project let’s you join a Kalahari Safari to help African Wildlife or Contact Us for any other questions or read our Testimonials!