Did you know that the most trafficked animal in the world isn’t elephants, rhinos, or tigers—but the humble pangolin? These elusive, armor-clad creatures, often called "scaly anteaters," are so rare that many people have never even heard of them. And yet, they are being pushed to the brink of extinction due to illegal wildlife trade.

In this eye-opening episode of Fur Real, I sit down with Dr. Matthew Shirley of the Pangolin Specialist Group, who works closely with IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) to protect these incredible mammals. We uncover jaw-dropping facts about pangolins—like how their 16-inch-long, ultra-sticky tongue helps them feast on insects, even though they don’t have teeth! Plus, they are the only mammals covered in scales, which they use as a built-in defense system, rolling into an impenetrable ball when threatened.

But here's the dark truth: pangolins are being hunted at alarming rates for their meat and scales, making them a prime target for black market trade. Dr. Shirley breaks down what’s being done to combat this crisis—from dismantling illegal trafficking networks to implementing innovative conservation strategies that protect both pangolins and the rural communities affected by the trade.

This episode is packed with mind-blowing facts, conservation efforts, and ways YOU can help save one of the world's most unique and endangered creatures. Don’t miss it!

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Speical thanks to J Jig Cicero @jjigcicero for our music intro and outro..you rock!!!

Special thanks to Jake Olson  [email protected] for awesome sound editing

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