Rediscovery of the endangered giant pangolin (Smutsia gigantea) in Senegal after 24 years

After 24 years without confirmed sightings, the giant pangolin (Smutsia gigantea) has been rediscovered in Niokolo-Koba National Park (NKNP), Senegal. This finding highlights the persistence of this endangered species within one of West Africa's largest protected areas, despite suspected local extinctions and significant trafficking pressures. Researchers documented the presence of giant pangolins using a large-scale camera-trap survey conducted in 2023, providing critical photographic evidence. The rediscovery underscores the importance of systematic biodiversity inventories in safeguarding vulnerable species and the ecological value of NKNP as a stronghold for West African wildlife.

Ndiaye, M. M., Drouilly, M., Senghor, A. A., Thiaw, O., Ingram, D. J., Shirley, M. H., Strampelli, P., Marti, C. M., & Henschel, P. (2024). Rediscovery of the endangered giant pangolin (Smutsia gigantea) in Senegal after 24 years. African Journal of Ecology, 62(2). Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/aje.13279