From heartbreak to hope for rescued pangolins
The stories of two pangolins rescued by Lilongwe Wildlife Centre show the ups and downs of their vital work to protect the species.
Left: Po, undergoing surgery. Right: Joey recovering after arriving at the rescue centre (c) LWT
Born Free is proud to support Lilongwe Wildlife Centre (LWC), Malawi’s only accredited wildlife sanctuary, and a true safe haven for animals in need. Every day, their dedicated team rescues, rehabilitates and, whenever possible, returns wild animals to the freedom they deserve.
Their work not only gives individual animals a second chance, but also strikes a blow against the illegal wildlife trade that threatens species across Africa.
Recently, two very different rescues conducted by LWC showed both the heartbreak and the hope that come with this vital work.
Po, a young pangolin, was seized by law enforcement officers during an attempted sale – proof that authorities are becoming ever more vigilant against traffickers.
When she arrived at LWC, it was clear she had suffered terribly. A severe snare injury had left her very weak with an exposed leg bone. Po underwent surgery, that sadly resulted in an amputation, and was placed in intensive care, then spent four weeks in rehabilitation.
Joey being checked over (c) LWT
For the first few days, she was actively foraging and feeding on ants and termites, but as a precaution, and based on veterinary recommendation, assisted feeding was also provided. Unfortunately, her condition began to deteriorate after two weeks, and she slowly stopped eating and started to become weaker. Devastatingly, she eventually suffered a cardiac arrest and passed away. The team were incredibly sad to lose Po, after working so hard to treat her.
But alongside loss, there is also hope. Joey, another pangolin rescued from the illegal wildlife trade, arrived in far better shape. At nearly 15 kg, he was one of the largest pangolins the Centre had ever received.
After a full health check, he was released back to the wild – fitted with tracking devices so his journey could be followed and his safety assured. Joey’s return to the forest is a moment of triumph – reminding us what this work is about.
Po and Joey’s stories have different endings, but together they shine a light on the challenges wild animals face – and the extraordinary dedication of those fighting to protect them.
Born Free is deeply grateful to everyone at Lilongwe Wildlife Centre for their tireless efforts. Thanks to their compassion, skill, and determination, countless animals are being given the chance to live wild and free once again.
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