Balimela Forest Team Rescues Endangered Pangolin, Releases It Safely Into Natural Habitat
Malkangiri: Forest officials in Odisha’s Balimela Range successfully rescued an endangered Indian pangolin after it was spotted in an open area near the forest fringe at Chitapari III village.
The rare mammal was later released into a suitable natural habitat following a health assessment.
According to forest department sources, the pangolin was discovered during a routine foot patrol conducted by frontline forest staff.
Since pangolins are generally nocturnal and secretive animals, finding one in an exposed location prompted officials to initiate an immediate rescue operation.
The rescued animal was examined to ensure its fitness before being released safely into a protected forest habitat away from human settlements.
Forest personnel took necessary precautions during the rescue and release process to minimise stress on the animal.
The Indian Pangolin (Manis crassicaudata) is one of the most heavily trafficked mammals in the world and enjoys the highest level of legal protection under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
The species is also listed as Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Wildlife experts have frequently highlighted poaching and habitat degradation as major threats to the survival of the species.
The successful rescue and release in Balimela underscores the importance of regular forest patrolling and wildlife conservation efforts in Odisha.
