Exploring pangolin rehabilitation practices and challenges in Africa and Asia

Abstract Wildlife rehabilitation is often overlooked in conservation. Pangolins rescued from wildlife trade, vehicle collisions, habitat destruction, and other human‐induced threats are sent to rehabilitation centers for recovery and release. This study provides preliminary information from a practitioner‐based assessment of pangolin rehabilitation practices across Africa and Asia, exploring reported similarities and differences in rehabilitation between regions. We administered a questionnaire that was completed by 28 individuals and conducted 14 semi‐structured interviews with individuals experienced in pangolin rehabilitation. Results highlight both similarities and differences in rehabilitation practices across regions based on practitioner experiences. Rehabilitators of Africa more frequently emphasized limited funding and resources as key challenges, while the rehabilitators of Asia more often cited unsuitable release habitats and low public awareness. Participants from Africa emphasized their involvement in post‐release monitoring, while participants from Asia emphasized government involvement in their rescues and releases. Stress and welfare concerns remained relatively the same, but differences were reported in the most commonly observed complications. Further research is needed to examine rehabilitation processes, mortality rates, post‐release support, and stress indicators among pangolin species. Wildlife rehabilitation represents a potentially important aspect of conservation strategy, particularly for pangolins and other species susceptible to extinction.