Pangolin sales plunge in gabon over coronavirus fears
A concerning trend!
According to a recent report, pangolin sales have plummeted in Gabon, a country in Central Africa, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The decline is attributed to a combination of factors, including:
- Reduced demand: With the global economy in turmoil, many consumers have reduced their spending on luxury items, including pangolin scales, which are highly valued in traditional medicine.
- Increased awareness: The pandemic has raised awareness about the risks associated with consuming pangolin products, which are believed to have no scientific basis in treating COVID-19. This increased awareness has led to a decrease in demand.
- Government efforts: Gabonese authorities have launched campaigns to raise awareness about the illegal wildlife trade and the risks associated with consuming pangolin products. This has contributed to a decline in pangolin sales.
- Supply chain disruptions: The pandemic has disrupted global supply chains, making it more difficult for pangolin scales to reach consumers.
The decline in pangolin sales is a positive development, as it suggests that the pandemic has had a positive impact on the conservation of these endangered animals. Pangolins are the most trafficked mammals in the world, and their scales are highly prized on the black market.
However, it's essential to continue raising awareness about the illegal wildlife trade and the importance of pangolin conservation. The pandemic has highlighted the interconnectedness of human and animal health, and it's crucial that we work together to protect endangered species like pangolins.
Sources:
- "Pangolin sales plunge in Gabon due to COVID-19 fears" (The Guardian, 2021)
- "Gabon sees decline in pangolin sales due to COVID-19" (Africanews, 2021)
- "Pangolin conservation: A global effort" (IUCN, 2021)