What are the main reasons for activists attempting to raise global awareness about the pangolin?
Activists attempt to raise global awareness about the pangolin due to several main reasons:
1. Conservation: Pangolins are the most trafficked mammals in the world, primarily for their scales and meat. As a result, all eight species of pangolins are on the brink of extinction. Activists aim to raise awareness about the dire situation these animals face and promote efforts to protect and conserve their populations.
2. Ecological Importance: Pangolins play a crucial role in their ecosystems. They are insectivores, feasting on ants and termites, which helps control insect populations. By highlighting their ecological importance, activists aim to underscore the potential negative consequences of their disappearance from the natural habitats.
3. Link to Illegal Wildlife Trade: Raising awareness about pangolins also brings attention to the broader issue of illegal wildlife trade. This illicit industry threatens not only pangolins but also many other endangered species worldwide. Activists seek to shed light on the connection between pangolin poaching and the overall problem of illegal wildlife trafficking.
To learn more about the motivations behind the efforts to raise global awareness about the pangolin, you can explore various sources such as conservation organizations' websites, news articles, scientific publications, and social media campaigns initiated by these activists.