Temminck’s Pangolin Humbu

The following story about a Temminck’s pangolin was submitted by Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital in South Africa.

A sub-adult, male Temminck’s pangolin (Smutsia temminckii) was recently rescued from the illegal wildlife trade. He was affectionately named Humbu, which means: remember me.

After arriving at our undisclosed location, he has been taken out regularly by our dedicated pangolin walkers (as Temminck’s pangolins don’t eat in captivity, and only while foraging), as well as receiving supplementary nutrients with EmerAid IC Carnivore.

He has been in our care for two weeks, and he is now ready for the next step in his rehabilitation journey. This brings him one step closer to release within a safe environment.

In order to ensure that the team on the ground at the release site can maintain his safety, monitor his movements, and contribute to research, Humbu needs a satellite tag. Each tag is costly, so the hospital appreciates donations toward the safety of Temminck’s pangolins.

PLEASE NOTE: All pangolin patients are housed off site at our Investec undisclosed location for the protection of them as well as our staff.