Instagram – October 9th, 2019

It’s always devastating to hear about the poaching and trafficking of any animal, no matter how big or small. But imagine where we would be without organisations like @africanparksnetwork and @africanpangolinconservation who are dedicated to protecting Africa’s wildlife and putting an end to these despicable practises. We thank you for everything you do, from the bottom of our hearts ❤️ #Repost @africanparksnetwork with @get_repost
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330 kilograms of pangolin scales were seized in Kinshasa in late July in a joint operation between African Parks, Juristrale, a DRC based organization, and local authorities. A team from African Parks’ Investigations Unit in @garamba_national_park was able to provide key information to Juristrale and local authorities arrested two suspects in possession of the scales. The case is ongoing in court in Kinshasa. To date, this is the largest seizure of pangolin scales that the Garamba team has been involved in, and we applaud the efforts of all involved! Sadly, the scales are believed to have belonged to roughly 100 giant pangolins that were likely poached from wilderness areas in northern DRC. Devastatingly, over a million pangolins are estimated to have been killed in the last decade and 20 tonnes of scales are believed to be trafficked internationally every year making them one of the most heavily trafficked species on the planet. Had this seizure in Kinshasa not taken place, these scales would’ve travelled through the illegal trade networks from Africa to Asia, where they would fetch their highest price. Unfortunately, consumer demand far outweighs the available supply, driving these shy, elusive and quirky creatures to extinction. It is only through curbing demand and deterring poachers and traffickers that these creatures stand a chance. 🎥 @jeanlabu #africanparks #garamba #DRC #pangolin #endangered #illegaltrade #worthmorealive #conservation