In the South African province of KwaZulu-Natal, a crucial effort is being made to protect the most trafficked animal on the planet: **the pangolin**. This **[scaly mammal](https://noticiasambientales.com/animales/curiosidades-sobre-el-pangolin-que-quiza-no-conocias/)**, often compared to armadillos, stands out not only for its peculiar appearance but also for **its critical situation as the most trafficked animal in the world**.
In the Phinda Private Game Reserve, managed by the company &Beyond, an innovative program seeks to **rescue, rehabilitate, and reintroduce pangolins into their natural habitat**. This task aims not only for their conservation but also to raise public awareness about the importance of protecting this unique species, according to National Geographic Traveller.
This is because **the pangolin is the only mammal with scales in the world** and has an evolutionary history dating back 85 million years, sharing its origin with dinosaurs. Throughout its history, this species **has survived mass extinctions and climate changes**, demonstrating an extraordinary ability to adapt.
However, their resilience has not been able to protect them from modern dangers. Currently, **the eight pangolin species are threatened by illegal trafficking of their scales and meat**, mainly driven by demand in Asian markets. Their unique characteristics, such as their tongue longer than their body and their curious bipedal gait, have led to nicknames like “walking pinecone” or “artichoke with a tail,” but also to make them **a target for poachers** who have made them the most trafficked animal on the planet.
## **Phinda: A Sanctuary for the Most Trafficked Animal on the Planet**
The **Phinda Reserve**, spanning 115 square miles of rich biodiversity, has become **a key refuge for pangolins rescued from illegal trade**. This unique project in Africa is dedicated to rehabilitating and reintroducing these animals into a protected environment, combining conservation with environmental education.
At the same time, the program allows visitors to join researchers in monitoring pangolins, offering **an immersive experience that connects adventure and environmental awareness**. Amanda Canning, author of the article in National Geographic Traveller, describes her visit as transformative, highlighting the balance between sustainable tourism and nature preservation.
At Forest Lodge, a set of eco-friendly cabins integrated into the forest, **tourists can coexist with local species** such as nyala antelopes and impalas, in a carefully managed environment to minimize human impact.
## **An Uncertain Future with Glimmers of Hope**
Despite efforts, the pangolin remains a critically endangered species. However, projects like the one at Phinda offer a glimmer of hope, showing that **human intervention can be an ally in conservation**. Each reintroduced pangolin represents a step towards the survival of a species that has endured millions of years of changes.
As Amanda Canning’s experience demonstrates, visiting this sanctuary is not only an opportunity to explore an exotic place but also a valuable lesson about the connection between humanity and nature. **This model could be replicated in other regions**, showing that with commitment and innovative strategies, it is possible to protect the natural legacy for future generations.
## **Why is the pangolin considered a unique species?**
The pangolin stands out among mammals for being covered in scales, in addition to the following characteristics:
– **Appearance:** It resembles a reptile, due to its long tail, clawed feet, and nocturnal behavior.
– **Protection:** When threatened, it curls up into a ball to protect itself with its scales.
– **Feeding:** It feeds on ants and termites that it captures with its long, narrow, sticky tongue. Although it has no teeth, its stomach crushes the insects it chooses as food.
– **Habitat:** It lives in tropical regions of Africa and Asia.
– **Species:** There are eight pangolin species, including the giant pangolin, the black-bellied pangolin, and the white-bellied pangolin.
– **Conservation status:** It is endangered due to poaching and illegal trafficking.
– **Importance:** It is a natural ally of farmers as it aerates the soil and controls insects.
– **Scales:** Its scales are made of keratin, the same substance as human hair and nails.
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