Pangolin Rehabilitation Efforts in Mozambique Highlight Unique Challenges
- At a wildlife center in Mozambique, trafficked pangolins are rehabilitated and prepared for release back into the wild.
- Veterinarian Mércia Ângela shares her experiences bonding with these rare mammals.
- The care provided reflects the efforts to combat wildlife trafficking and promote conservation.
In Mozambique’s Gorongosa National Park, a dedicated veterinary team is working to rehabilitate pangolins, a species known for its unique defense mechanism of curling into a ball when threatened. The pangolin rehabilitation center, which opened in 2018, provides a safe environment for these animals, allowing them to engage in natural behaviors such as eating and playing in the field. The team ensures that the pangolins receive daily care, including food and water, while monitoring their activities, particularly during the day when they rest due to their nocturnal nature. Pangolins are among the most trafficked animals globally, primarily due to the high demand for their scales in traditional medicine markets in Asia. Many of these animals have endured severe mistreatment during captivity, often tied up and kept in poor conditions. The rehabilitation process is crucial for their recovery, but the release back into the wild is not always immediate, as the animals need to regain their strength and adapt to their natural habitat. The challenges of conservation in Mozambique are compounded by socio-economic issues, such as hunger and unemployment, which can drive individuals to engage in illegal activities like poaching. The veterinary team, led by a passionate graduate from Eduardo Mondlane University, emphasizes the importance of protecting pangolins, as they play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. Through their dedicated efforts, the rehabilitation center aims to raise awareness about the plight of pangolins and the need for their conservation, highlighting the interconnectedness of wildlife protection and community welfare.