The pangolin is a unique creature – the nocturnal mammal is known for being mysterious. Adorable but sturdy, it can roll up into a ball to protect itself with scaly armor, and lash its sharp tail out at predators. Sadly, the pangolin is also one of the most vulnerable animals alive today. These shy, scaly creatures are one of the most trafficked mammals in the world. According to the Center for Biological Diversity, seven species are in danger of extinction.
Thankfully, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has proposed listing these seven pangolin species under the Endangered Species Act. This is a crucial first step, but we must make sure the agency follows through.
Sign the petition to urge USFWS to give these pangolin species the proper protections!
Hunted for their meat and scales, up to 2.7 million pangolins are often brutally killed and sold on the black market.
If approved, the move to protect more pangolin species would help shut down any remaining U.S. market for pangolin parts and strengthen law enforcement's ability to prosecute wildlife traffickers.
There is no excuse for delay. The U.S. must uphold its responsibility to protect these animals and all endangered wildlife. We must ensure that the ESA is used to its full potential to protect not only U.S. species but also creatures like pangolins that are suffering due to global exploitation.
Don't let these remarkable animals vanish in silence. Add your name to demand the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service finalize endangered species protections for all seven pangolin species!
