Other than rhino dehorning projects, this was our most expensive project to date.  Thanks to our generous contributors, Veterinary Conservation Coalition was able to provide a much-needed portable X-ray unit to Umoya.

You may think, how could a small x-ray machine be your most expensive project?  From finding a suitable machine, to a state-of-the-art computer for processing, to transport costs, this donation was $15,000!   This is a cost that could not be absorbed by a dedicated wildlife rescue who spends all of their money on food, care, and medical attention.  That’s why we stepped in.

Diana knows from experience what equipment is needed, the intricacies of x-raying in the wild, and the nuances needed from a portable machine, and she searched high and low for the perfect piece that would fulfill the rescue’s greatest need.  She even hauled it by hand from Albuquerque to Johannesburg to ensure a safe delivery.

By providing Umoya their own machine, they are not only able to reduce veterinary costs but also reduce the stress on the animal by taking x-rays in house and not having to transport to a clinic.
Most pangolins seized from the illegal trade have been kept under dire conditions.  The majority of animals retrieved from the trade are in compromised or less than ideal condition due to varying levels of stress, trauma and/or injuries.  Common ailments include respiratory tract issues, gastric ulcers, and open wounds. Each pangolin confiscated is assessed by a permitted wildlife hospital, where they are given radiographs, sonar scans, blood analyses, medication and intensive care.  The average assessment cost is up to 25,000 Rand/$1340.

As pangolin numbers have been depleted over much of their Asian range, the onslaught on the African species has grown exponentially in recent years.  Current estimates suggest that one pangolin is poached every five minutes, resulting in 2019 alone, 97 tonnes /213,848 lbs. of loose scales being intercepted leaving the African continent; this equates to more than 160,000 African pangolins destined for traditional cultural practices of the East.  If one considers that these intercepted consignments represent a very small proportion of the actual undetected trade, African pangolins face a bleak future.

Battling on the frontline to save South Africa’s pangolins are rangers, sting and enforcement teams, veterinarians, and Umoya Khulula Wildlife Centre.
**  Note that all pangolins are housed at offsite locations for security purposes.**