Abstract:
Throughout its range, Temminck’s ground pangolin, Smutsia temminckii, is becoming
increasingly threatened, predominantly as a result of anthropogenic pressures. This species
is currently listed as Vulnerable in South Africa and Least Concern globally, although many
assessment criteria are data deficient and thus hamper an accurate assessment of its actual
status. Current knowledge of the threats faced by Temminck’s ground pangolin largely stem
from a handful of ecological studies and ad hoc observations. Here we synthesize data on
the known threats faced by this species in southern Africa and highlight a number of
new threats not previously recognized. The main threats faced by this species include
electrocution on electrified fences, the traditional medicine (muthi ) trade, habitat loss, road
mortalities, capture in gin traps, and potentially poisoning. Electrocutions arguably pose the
greatest threat and mortality rates may be as high as one individual per 11 km of electrified
fence per year. However, the magnitude of the threat posed by the muthi trade has not yet
been quantified. Most southern African countries have adequate legislation protecting
this species, although implementation is often lacking and in some instances the imposed
penalties are unlikely to be a deterrent. We propose mitigating actions for many of the
identified threats, although further research into the efficacy of these actions, and the
development of additional mitigating procedures, is required.
