Pangolin (Manis Javanica)

wikipedia

Pangolin also called Scaly ant-eaters which in Indonesia known as trenggiling. A group of mammal belonging to family Manidae. Pangolin word itself comes from the Malay language, pengguling means something rolling. This nocturnal animal is an ant or termite eater. They come out at night to search for prey, but there are also other types that remain active during the day.

The body, and long, thick tail are covered by horny scales. Legs are very short and very strong, and the toes are armed with powerful claws enable the animal to burrow rapidly Its size ranges between 30-100 centimeters depending on the type. Pangolin females usually smaller body size than males.

These animals can roll themselves into a ball and are then protected by their scales. Roll is an attitude of self-protection when threatened, because in these conditions pangolin showed strength.

Unfortunately, this great beast, once easily found in tropical regions of Asia and Africa, now - especially those living in Indonesia - became scarce. Cause, in addition to their habitat damage due to changes in the function of forests into agricultural areas, pangolin are also hunted to be sold as pets. And that more concern is that people trade them as tempted by the offer of high prices. The animal meat is in great demand and highly sought scales.

Pangolin has been designated as a protected species by the government of Indonesia under the 1999 decree. And smuggling acts punishable by severe penalties with fines. International conservation bodies even prohibit trade of this species, including its products. Nevertheless, smuggling efforts are still common. In the past three years pangolin smuggling increased. Several times the police and customs in various of Indonesia ports failed smuggling pangolin abroad.

Usually these animal smuggled through South East Asia to several Asian countries, especially China and Vietnam. In these areas pangolin meat is preferred.because the deliciousness. While its scales used as ingredients in medicines. They believe both meat and scales are nutritious for health.

If this manis javanica smuggling continues is estimated in 10 - 20 years no longer trenggiling  can be found!