Empowering Communities as Custodians of Critical Habitats
how we create impact
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Protect habitat
We partner with local landowners to protect over 4,000 acres of forest through conditional agreements, with plans to expand to 25,000 acres. These agreements provide incentives to preserve critical habitats, which house not only pangolins but also support rich biodiversity and local climate regulation. So far, we’ve engaged 133 landowners to secure the future of these vital ecosystems
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Patrol Habitat: Rangers
Our team of 21 trained rangers patrols over 7,700 km of forest annually, responding to wildlife injuries, removing snares, and mitigating human-wildlife conflicts. Since joining in Summer 2024, they’ve recorded wildlife casualties and carried out rescues, saving animals like elephants and zebras from life-threatening situations. These efforts enhance security for all species sharing the pangolins’ habitat.
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Monitor pangolins
Our dedicated monitoring team tracks the elusive Giant Pangolins daily across their 69,000-acre habitat. Using 94 advanced camera traps and detailed patrols, we’ve identified approximately 10 individuals, representing up to 50% of the estimated population in Nyekweri. This monitoring has revealed crucial insights, including seasonal activity peaks and the first recorded sighting of pangolin pups in two years, highlighting the importance of this work for their survival.
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Remove Deadly Fencing
Deadly electric fences have caused significant pangolin mortality in the past. In response, we’ve worked with 64 households to de-electrify 71 kilometers of fencing. These efforts have already saved lives, including a pregnant pangolin rescued after being caught in a fence. We continue advocating for safer practices to protect both pangolins and other wildlife from these lethal barriers
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Empowering Local Communities
At the heart of our work is the belief that conservation thrives when communities are involved. We engage directly with local landowners, hosting over 490 household meetings this year alone to foster collaboration and trust. Through initiatives like conditional payment schemes for forest protection and community-led conservation workshops, we empower communities to become stewards of their environment. Together, we’re creating sustainable solutions that benefit both people and wildlife
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Working in partnership
The Pangolin Project has partnered with Olorien Forest Trust and Kimintet Forest Trust Conservancy to drive habitat protection, address community needs, and foster sustainable conservation.
“Collaboration truly drives change. Together, we’re proving that when communities lead, conservation thrives.” Big Life Foundation
“TPP estimates the current population of Giant Pangolin is between 16 and 32 individuals, with the population threatened with local extinction by habitat loss and fencing. Other species such as giraffe and elephants, are recording significant declines as the natural capital of the area is eroded. Without immediate action, the Nyekweri Forest and its unique biodiversity, including Giant Pangolins, will be lost forever”
Dr Claire Okell- CEO of The Pangolin Project