Wildlife Conservation South Africa Project #59829

Save the Temminck's Pangolin in South Africa

by Scales Conservation Fund NPC

Project Report | Oct 2, 2025
Springtime Scales and Survival

By Amy Aucamp-Clark | Campaign Manager

Bamba

As spring breathes life into South Africa’s bushveld, your donations fuel the Scales Pangolin Rescue Fund’s mission to save Temminck’s pangolins from poaching and trafficking. Over the past three months, your support has protected pangolins, funding critical veterinary care, rehabilitation, and monitoring at secure, undisclosed locations. Our heroes from the last report—Biscuit, Ntombi, and Archie are thriving: Biscuit’s foraging like a champion, Ntombi’s mastering the wild, and Archie’s ruling his territory with confidence. Now, let us share fresh tales of resilience from Maruti, Bamba, Plum, Timothy, and Johnny, whose journeys back to the wild shine thanks to you.

Maruti’s story is one of grit and justice. Rescued in November 2022 from poachers at Beitbridge Port, she arrived starving, dehydrated, and with infected scales from a filthy bag. Dr. Debbie at Provet Animal Hospital and the team at Umoya Khulula Wildlife Centre nursed her back to health with your-funded care. Now, Maruti roams free, slurping ants with gusto, while her poachers face 8.5-year sentences, a victory sealed in September 2025. Similarly, Timothy, saved from traffickers in November 2024, thrives post-release, spotted last month confidently foraging under starlight, thanks to the monitoring equipment your donations provide.

Bamba and Plum are carving their paths to freedom. Bamba, rescued from a cramped crate, began his soft release this month, exploring eagerly while our team ensures he’s eating enough ants to regain weight lost in his excitement. Plum, saved in July 2025 from traffickers in Plumtree, Zimbabwe, is gaining strength at 6.2kg, her spunky spirit shining as she excavates burrows during rehab walks. Their progress, supported by your contributions to veterinary and rehab efforts, brings them closer to wild independence. Meanwhile, young Johnny, rescued a month ago from the illegal trade, is growing stronger daily, munching ants with enthusiasm as he prepares for release once he hits 6kg.

Each pangolin’s triumph—from Maruti’s justice to Johnny’s budding confidence—reflects the power of your support. Your donations fund the expertise of Provet Animal Hospital, Umoya Khulula Wildlife Centre, and partners like the Limpopo Pangolin Collective, ensuring these scaly survivors reclaim their place in the wild. As spring blooms, we’re inspired to keep fighting for every pangolin, with you by our side.

With boundless gratitude,
The Scales Pangolin Rescue Fund Team

Johnny

Plum

Maruti

Timothy

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Jun 4, 2025
Pangolin Release Journeys

By Amy Aucamp-Clark | Campaign Manager

Feb 5, 2025
Pangolin Rescue and Release Update

By Amy Aucamp-Clark | Campaign Manager

Biscuit

Thanks to your generosity, the past few months have been incredibly impactful for our Scales Pangolin Rescue Fund. Your support has directly contributed to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of pangolins affected by poaching. As we reflect on our recent successes, we also recognize the continued urgency of our work in protecting these extraordinary creatures.

Rescue & Rehabilitation Highlights

Since our last update, we have worked with 11 pangolins, each with a unique story. These rescues have included individuals suffering from snaring injuries, malnutrition, and the traumatic effects of wildlife trafficking. Our dedicated team, alongside veterinarians and field partners, has provided essential medical care, round-the-clock monitoring, and, in some cases, complete rehabilitation back into the wild.

One of the most inspiring cases was Biscuit, who was confiscated from the illegal wildlife trade and brought to us severely dehydrated and weak. After weeks of intensive care, including rehydration therapy and hours of dedicated walkers monitoring him as he fed, we were thrilled to release him back into a secure, monitored reserve. We continue to track his progress as he settles into the new wild area he now calls home.

Challenges & Conservation Efforts

Despite these successes, pangolins remain the most trafficked mammals in the world. Our work is far from over. Some of the key challenges we face include:

Increasing incidents of snaring and poaching – A disturbing trend we have observed is the rising number of pangolins caught in snares meant for other wildlife. This indiscriminate method of hunting is devastating for multiple species, and we are working with local communities to mitigate these threats.
Habitat loss – We have also seen an increase in traffic fatalities. Habitat loss is thought to be the leading factor forcing pangolins to 'migrate' in search of food, which, in turn, puts them at risk when crossing main roads.
Need for enhanced monitoring – Tracking pangolins post-release remains a challenge due to their elusive nature. Tracking devices are a significant expense but are necessary to ensure a successful release and long-term survival.

Looking Ahead: How You Can Help

As we continue to rescue and rehabilitate pangolins, we rely on your support to sustain and expand our efforts. Donations help us cover essential needs such as:

Emergency veterinary care
GPS tracking devices for post-release monitoring
Community education and anti-poaching initiatives

Thank you for being a part of this journey with us. Your generosity fuels our ability to save pangolins and give them a second chance in the wild.

Paige

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