Pangolins, the world's most trafficked mammals, get major boost in battle against ext
 

Pangolins, the world's most trafficked mammals, get major boost in battle against extinction
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The pangolin — a scaly, bug-eating, cat-sized anteater — may soon gain a higher level of protection as conservationists race to save the mammal from extinction.

Pangolins, native to Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa, are believed to be the most trafficked animals in the world. Their scales are a common ingredient in traditional Asian medicines, and their meat is considered a luxury food in many cultures.

SEE ALSO: Countries call for end to domestic ivory trade as elephants disappear


At a world wildlife conference in South Africa this week, countries are expected to give eight pangolin species the top level of protection under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Read more...

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