INDIAN PANGOLIN

The Indian pangolin (Manis crassicaudata), also called thick-tailed pangolin and scaly anteater, is a pangolin native to the Indian subcontinent.Like other pangolins, it has large, overlapping scales on its body which act as armour. The colour of its scales varies depending on the colour of the earth in its surroundings. It can also curl itself into a ball as self-defence against predators such as the tiger. It is an insectivore feeding on ants and termites, digging them out of mounds and logs using its long claws, which are as long as its fore limbs. It is nocturnal and rests in deep burrows during the day.


Here are some locations in Goa where Indian pangolins have been spotted:

1. Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary and Mollem National Park
2. Netravali Wildlife Sanctuaryl pangolins.
3. Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary.
4. Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary
5. Goa's Western Ghats

Some specific villages and areas in Goa where Indian pangolins have been spotted include:

1. Sattari
2. Valpoi
3. Netravali
4. Cotigao

The Indian pangolin is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, and its population is declining in Goa due to various threats. Here are some reasons why Indian pangolins are endangered in Goa:


_Habitat-related threats_
1.__Habitat related threats_: The destruction and degradation of forests, grasslands, and wetlands have reduced the Indian pangolin's habitat, making it difficult for them to survive and breed.
2. _Deforestation_: The conversion of forests into agricultural land, urban areas, and infrastructure development projects has led to widespread deforestation, reducing the Indian pangolin's habitat.
3. _Infrastructure development_: The construction of roads, dams, and other infrastructure projects has fragmented the Indian pangolin's habitat, making it difficult for them to move through the landscape.

_Poaching and trade_
1. _Scale trade_: Indian pangolin scales are highly valued in traditional medicine, particularly in China and Southeast Asia, leading to widespread poaching.
2. _Meat trade_: Indian pangolin meat is also consumed in some parts of Goa, leading to further poaching pressure.

_Human-pangolin conflict_
1. _Agricultural encroachment_: The expansion of agricultural land has led to the encroachment of Indian pangolin habitats, resulting in conflicts between humans and pangolins.
2. _Livestock depredation_: Indian pangolins may be perceived as pests by livestock owners, leading to retaliatory killings.

_Climate change_
1. _Changes in food availability_: Climate change has altered the availability of ants and termites, the Indian pangolin's primary food source.
2. _Changes in habitat quality_: Climate change has reduced the quality of the Indian pangolin's habitat, making it difficult for them to survive.


As a Goan, we have a vital role to play in protecting the Indian pangolin and its habitat. 

Here are some duties you can fulfill:

Spread awareness: Many people in Goa are unaware of the Indian pangolin's conservation status and the threats it faces.Share information about the Indian pangolin's conservation status, its importance in the ecosystem, and the threats it faces.
Protect habitats: Support initiatives that protect and restore forests, grasslands, and wetlands in Goa, which are essential habitats for Indian pangolins.
Report pangolin sightings: If you spot an Indian pangolin in the wild, report it to the Goa Forest Department or a local conservation organization.
Report poaching incidents: If you witness or suspect pangolin poaching, report it to the authorities immediately.
Make sustainable choices: Choose sustainable products and practices that do not harm Indian pangolins or their habitats.
Support eco-tourism: Promote and support eco-tourism initiatives that showcase Goa's natural beauty and promote conservation.
Educating young ones: Teach children about the importance of conservation and the role they can play in protecting Indian pangolins.


Thank you.



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