U.S. Officials Advocate for Endangered Species Act Protection for Pangolins

Federal officials are pushing to classify pangolins as endangered under the Endangered Species Act, responding to conservation advocates amid challenges to environmental policies. This proposal aims to reduce illegal trafficking and bolster conservation efforts for these vulnerable species.

The pangolin, an unusual and beloved scaled mammal thought to be the most trafficked mammal globally, is on track to receive protective status under the Endangered Species Act, as announced by U.S. officials on Monday. Primarily inhabiting Africa and Asia, these creatures face severe threats from poaching for their meat and scales, which are highly prized in illegal markets.

The impetus for this proposed protection stems from a prolonged legal campaign by conservationists. This move comes even as the Trump administration has previously sought to weaken the Endangered Species Act and roll back various environmental regulations. However, the Endangered Species Act mandates protections for endangered species regardless of their geographic location.

By listing pangolins under this Act, U.S. regulations would impose restrictions on their import and export, as well as their hunting and commercial exploitation. Furthermore, these protections could facilitate funding for conservation initiatives in the animals' native regions, although recent budget cuts and freezes under the Trump administration have raised questions about the viability of such support.

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, "the profits generated from the illegal trade of pangolins and other endangered species often fund serious criminal activities, including trafficking in drugs and arms." They underscored that adding pangolins to the endangered list reinforces the government's commitment to safeguarding these extraordinary animals and prevents the United States from exacerbating their population decline.

Conservationists argue that due to the extensive threats faced by pangolins, it would be legally indefensible not to classify them as endangered. This potential designation is seen as a critical step towards combatting the rampant wildlife trafficking that imperils not only pangolins but numerous other species on the brink of extinction.