Ground Pangolin
Smutsia temminckii
Vulnerable
IUCN Red List status · Population decreasing as of 2023
About the Ground Pangolin
Pangolins are the world's most trafficked mammals. Their unique scales, made of keratin, make them targets for illegal wildlife trade. They are vital ecosystem engineers, consuming millions of insects annually.
Region
Southern Africa
Population
Unknown
Trend
Data Year
2023
Key Facts
Habitat Types
Found In
Why Africa's Wildlife Matters
Africa's megafauna are not just iconic — they are ecosystem engineers. The loss of a single keystone species can trigger cascading collapses across entire biomes. Elephants create waterholes, lions regulate prey, and predators maintain the biodiversity that keeps Africa's grasslands and forests functioning.
20%
of Earth's bird species in Africa
25%
of mammals found in Africa
3,000+
endemic plant species at risk
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Scale Shield
$12/month
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Pangolin Protector
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Quick Stats