Lapalala Wilderness is a conservation area in the Waterberg spanning 48,000 ha of breath-taking and diverse habitat. In a historic milestone, Lapalala was declared a formally protected nature reserve by LEDET in 2020, making Lapalala the largest privately owned nature reserve in Limpopo. Apart from being home to the famous big 5 (lion, African elephant, black and white rhinoceros, leopard, and African buffalo), several programs have been initiated to protect key species such as cheetah, roan antelope and African wild dog.
One smaller-sized animal that is currently threatened with extinction mustn’t be forgotten. Lapalala Wilderness is working with the African Pangolin Working Group (APWG) to assist with the soft release of rehabilitated Temminck’s pangolin (Smutsia temminckii). Pangolins have an unfortunate status as one of the most trafficked animals in the world. Their scales are highly sought after in the Illegal trade for use in traditional Chinese medicine.
In South Africa, the ground pangolin is listed as a TOPS species in terms of the NEMBA Act 10 of 2004 and a Specially Protected Wild Animal (Schedule 2) under the Limpopo Environmental Management Act, 7 of 2003. A person convicted of an offence in terms of section 101 is liable to a maximum fine of R10 million, or an imprisonment for a period of maximum ten years, or both. The APWG works closely with the local authorities and plays a key role in the rescue and release of confiscated pangolins. Very often, the animals are kept under deplorable conditions, arriving at the hospital in poor condition and under immense stress. After a period of specialised medical care, the next phase in pangolin rehabilitation is to relocate them to a place where they can roam freely. This is where Lapalala provides a haven and a second chance for these rarely seen creatures.
Newly released pangolins require intensive monitoring during the first couple of weeks, as the animals often struggle to adapt to a new environment. A dedicated Lapalala team, guided by APWG-trained monitors, records movement, weight changes and feeding success before permanent release takes place. Through this work one has the privilege to experience how fascinating these animals are with each a unique individual character. One pangolin may be shy and calm while another may be adventurous and outgoing. What they all have in common is that they absolutely love ants, and it’s a treat to see them hunting for ants in the bush. Every stump and every hole is thoroughly investigated and when jackpot is hit the digging becomes vigorous! There is still much to learn about this species, and it is a special opportunity to observe them so closely, thereby adding to our insight into pangolin behaviour. Follow Lapalala on Facebook and Instagram to receive the latest updates on our pangolin conservation efforts.
Annemieke Müller
Veterinary and Research Manager
Lapalala Wilderness
For more information on pangolin visit www.africanpangolin.org
To book your stay at Lapalala Wilderness visit www.lapalala.com
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