Tracking Scales: Community Knowledge and Pangolin Conservation in a Central African Park

Abstract

Pangolins are among the most heavily trafficked mammals worldwide, yet their conservation status remains poorly understood. We investigated pangolin presence, population trends, hunting methods, trade, use and cultural importance using local people's knowledge and perceptions in the communities surrounding the Campo Ma'an National Park in Cameroon. We administered semi-structured questionnaires to 250 randomly selected respondents from 15 villages surrounding the park. The most commonly recognised and sighted pangolin species were the White-bellied (Phataginus tricuspis) and Giant (Smutsia gigantea), while the Black-bellied pangolin (Phataginus tetradactyla) was the least frequently noted. Respondent age, occupation, and ethnicity had a significant influence on the recognition and sighting of pangolins and the perceived trend in pangolin populations. Older respondents were more likely to recognise pangolins, while younger respondents were more likely to observe them. Farmers and hunters were significantly more likely to observe pangolins compared to respondents of other occupations. People from the ethnic groups native to Campo Ma'an were more likely to recognise and see a pangolin than those from other ethnic groups. Respondents perceived a decline in all local pangolin species, with the highest perceived decline reported for the Giant pangolin and with older respondents being more likely to state that Giant pangolin populations are declining. We found evidence of pangolin hunting and trade. The White-bellied and Black-bellied pangolins were mostly captured by hand, while Giant pangolins were mostly shot. Respondents reported more frequent pangolin trade in private than public venues, indicating that they are aware of the ban on killing and trading pangolins in Cameroon. The primary reported use of pangolins was local meat consumption, but some respondents mentioned medicinal, spiritual, and decorative uses. There was minimal evidence for the cultural importance and uses of pangolins, and it was mainly noted for the Giant pangolin when it was reported. Our results suggest that local community members around Campo Ma'an are aware of pangolins in their area, including their uses and perceived population trends. This information is crucial for planning future field-based surveys.