Knowledge of the Critically Endangered Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) by local people in Sindhupalchok, Nepal

Abstract Species conservation planning is improved by the direct participation of local people that co-occur with the species of interest as they possess unique information based on their knowledge and experiences. We surveyed people living in suitable and unsuitable Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) habitat in Nepal to compare their knowledge of, and attitudes toward, this species. Based on availability of information on government policies for controlling wildlife trade, we expected that people living in suitable pangolin habitat would have greater knowledge of Chinese pangolin ecology, and people living in both suitable and unsuitable habitat would be aware of the protection status of pangolins and illegal pangolin trade. More respondents living in suitable pangolin habitat identified the Chinese pangolin and were aware of its legal status than did respondents living in unsuitable habitats. Overall, more than 81% of respondents had knowledge of pangolin’s diet and their ecosystem role. More than 86% of people were aware of local trade of Chinese pangolin in Nepal, but few respondents were aware of international trade. By integrating knowledge of local people with planning, the Nepal government can more effectively target areas for conservation. Based on demographic data and the knowledge of respondents from this study, we recommend that the Nepal government develop strategies that emphasize the conservation of threatened species and to minimize the illegal wildlife trade by increasing people’s awareness and knowledge of Chinese pangolins throughout its range.