U.S. officials have announced a proposal to classify pangolins as endangered under the Endangered Species Act, a response to their severe trafficking crisis and ongoing legal pressure from conservationists. This move aims to curb illegal activities financing broader criminal enterprises while enhancing conservation efforts for these unique mammals.
U.S. Officials Advocate for Endangered Status for Pangolins Amid Threats from Trafficking
U.S. Officials Advocate for Endangered Status for Pangolins Amid Threats from Trafficking
Federal authorities propose protections for pangolins, the world's most trafficked mammals, citing their critical endangerment status.
Pangolins—strange, adorable creatures adorned with scales—are recognized as the most heavily trafficked mammals worldwide. Recently, U.S. federal officials announced their support for granting these animals protection under the Endangered Species Act. Native to Africa and Asia, pangolins face dire threats from illegal trafficking for their scales and meat.
The proposal arises from prolonged legal pressure exerted by conservationists despite the previous administration's efforts to weaken various environmental protections, including the Endangered Species Act. The Act mandates protection for endangered species beyond U.S. borders, extending financial and legal benefits to their native habitats.
Federal officials emphasized that affording pangolins this status would lead to prohibitions on their import, export, hunting, and commercial activities. Furthermore, it could provide essential funding for conservation initiatives aimed at protecting these animals in their natural, original environments.
According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the illegal pangolin trade often finances serious crimes like drug and arms trafficking. By designating pangolins as endangered, the U.S. aims to reinforce its commitment to the conservation of these magnificent yet imperiled species, asserting that failing to do so would be legally indefensible.
Conservationists are already heralding this proposed listing as a necessary step to ensure the survival of pangolins against increasing pressures from poaching and illegal trade that threaten their very existence.
The proposal arises from prolonged legal pressure exerted by conservationists despite the previous administration's efforts to weaken various environmental protections, including the Endangered Species Act. The Act mandates protection for endangered species beyond U.S. borders, extending financial and legal benefits to their native habitats.
Federal officials emphasized that affording pangolins this status would lead to prohibitions on their import, export, hunting, and commercial activities. Furthermore, it could provide essential funding for conservation initiatives aimed at protecting these animals in their natural, original environments.
According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the illegal pangolin trade often finances serious crimes like drug and arms trafficking. By designating pangolins as endangered, the U.S. aims to reinforce its commitment to the conservation of these magnificent yet imperiled species, asserting that failing to do so would be legally indefensible.
Conservationists are already heralding this proposed listing as a necessary step to ensure the survival of pangolins against increasing pressures from poaching and illegal trade that threaten their very existence.
