Protect gorillas to save pangolins

(c) WCT

In the forests of Cameroon, pangolins navigate their way through the jungle, scooping up ants and termites as they go. But sadly, these unique mammals are threatened by habitat loss, poaching and international trade. Which is why Born Free has launched a major appeal to raise funds for their protection. 

(c) MPI-EVA-PanAf

So, how is Born Free supporting the conservation of these marvellous animals? In the vast rainforests of west central Africa, our remarkable Guardians of Dja programme operates in the Dja Faunal Reserve, Cameroon. Launched in 2022, its primary focus is the protection of the mighty western lowland gorilla. However, by protecting the forests where gorillas live, we are also helping secure the rainforest home of hundreds of other tropical wildlife species, including pangolins.

Here lives not one, but possibly three, species of pangolins. Camera trap studies have found white-bellied and ground pangolins. But, while the habitat is suitable for black-bellied pangolins, this mysterious species has been harder for researchers to track down due to their elusive nature and primarily arboreal (tree-living) lifestyle.

In Cameroon, we work closely with local communities to help them learn about the amazing pangolin species they live alongside. We provide education on the importance of all forest species in helping to create a healthy ecosystem: how gorillas disperse seeds and help maintain and regenerate the forest, and how pangolins dig for termites, turning over essential soil nutrients and keeping insect populations in check. Through this outreach, the local community is becoming more aware of the value of protecting all species and the forests themselves.

“When I discuss pangolins with villagers, they said they don’t kill them as in they did in the past because they are protected species” explains Donald Mbohli, our Guardians of Dja Programme Lead, “I think this conservation action of villagers is attributed to sensitisation in our programme.

“Many villagers did not know the role of pangolins in the forest and were surprised to learn how forests without pangolins can be devastated by termites. Villagers acknowledged the need to protect these animals after seeing photos and videos of termite devasted forests”.

Despite their smaller size compared with gorillas, pangolins are important guardians of their forest ecosystem, and we are proud our work is helping to protect these wonderful animals. You can help us do more to protect pangolins in Cameroon by donating to our Plight of the Pangolin appeal.