SCIENTISTS RADIO-TAG INDIAN PANGOLIN

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Scientists have, for the first time, radio-tagged the Indian pangolin, an endangered animal, that is rarely sighted in forests here.
The Indian pangolin, which resembles an ant-eater but dons a thick scaly skin, is hunted for meat and use in traditional Chinese medicine
Researchers say tagging the animal will help understand the habits of the reclusive, nocturnal animal.
Radio-tagging involves attaching a transmitter to an animal to monitor its movements. Several wild animals — tigers, leopards and migratory birds — have been tagged over decades.
Pangolins are among the most trafficked wildlife species in the world.
The International Union for the Conservation of Nature says these toothless animals have seen a rapid reduction in population.
The projected population declines range from 50% to 80 % across the genus.
Out of the eight species of pangolin, the Indian Pangolin and the Chinese Pangolin are found in India.
Both these species are listed under Schedule I Part I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972
World Pangolin Day, celebrated on the third Saturday in February, is an international attempt to raise awareness of pangolins and bring together stakeholders to help protect these unique species from extinction.