A successful community-led wildlife rescue of a baby Pangolin was carried out by the team of the International Border Area Peoples’ Welfare Organisation (IBAPWO) at Mutingkhong Village, Kiphire District, Nagaland.
In a press release issued on February 4, the IBAPWO informed that a baby pangolin was accidentally caught at Mutingkhong Village, a border village located close to the Indo–Myanmar international boundary. The animal was found by Khumong, a resident of the village. “Demonstrating responsible and conservation-friendly behaviour, Khumong did not harm the animal. Instead, he immediately informed N Apong, Chief Functionary of IBAPWO, about the incident,” mentioned the press release.
Upon receiving the information, Team IBAPWO responded promptly and coordinated with Khumong to ensure the safety of the animal. After reaching the site and assessing the situation, the team carefully rescued the baby pangolin. Understanding the ecological sensitivity of pangolins and the importance of maternal care for young pangolins, the team ensured that the animal was safely released back into its natural burrow at the same location, where the mother pangolin was present.
“The rescue and release were carried out with utmost care to minimize stress to the animal and to maximize its chances of survival in the wild. This incident stands as a positive example of how awareness, timely communication, and collaboration between local communities and grassroots organisations can play a crucial role in protecting endangered wildlife,” started the organisation.
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Pangolins are among the most trafficked mammals globally and are protected under Indian wildlife laws.
“Incidents like this reflect a growing sense of responsibility and conservation awareness among border communities in Nagaland, especially in remote areas where human–wildlife interactions are frequent,” added the organisation.
IBAPWO has been actively working in the Indo–Myanmar border regions of Kiphire District to promote wildlife conservation, community stewardship, and coexistence with nature.
