Unprecedented Account of Mortality and Morbidity in Free Ranging Formosan Pangolin (Manis pentadactyla pentadactyla)

Abstract

Globally, pangolins are overt for poaching and illegal trade, but Taiwan projects totally a contrary image where their population is stable and increasing. This paper illustrated the factors responsible for causing mortality and morbidity in free ranging Formosan pangolin (M. pentadactyla pentadactyla). Results from radio-tracking showed that Formosan pangolins are highly susceptible to stuck in tree hallows or ground burrows despite being proficient burrowers, and killed by gin traps, especially during the dryer season. Whilst the data consolidated from the Pingtung Rescue Center for Endangered Wild Animals illustrated the trauma (73.0%) was the major reason of causing morbidity in Formosan pangolin. The gin traps were the leading cause of trauma (77.8%) along with tail injuries caused by dog attack (20.4%). Despite all the pressing data about the injuries Taiwan, it is able to establish substantial success rate in rescuing and releasing pangolins through consolidating and applying valuable information among the rescue centers in the span of two decades. Taiwan has made a phenomenal progress in sustaining a salubrious population of pangolin but the situation requires continuous examination to ensure the existence of this species on the island.