'Pangolins' Scales Are Found In A Boat Inspected In Shaghai

Tons of "Pangolins" scales have been seized in China recently. It is reported that these scales have been found from a boat that arrived in Shanghai.

It is reported that "Pangolins" are the most poached mammals and is now considered endangered. The meat and scales of this animal are still at a high price in the black market today. These animals are rare and their scales are for their survival in the wild.

However, humans hunt them to get the scales since it has been believed to cure all illnesses in the black market. "Pangolins" can be found in Africa and Asia. There are more hunters that can be found in Asia to poached these animals and sell their meat and scales.

Recently, customs officials from China found 101 bags of "Pangolins" scales. These were hidden in a shipment of timber and were discovered in an inspection on the boat once it docked Shanghai. These scales are estimated to be coming from 5,000 to 7,500 animals.

It is reported that the estimated street value for these "Pangolins" scales that have been discovered is more than $2 million. Over the past decade, there are over a million of these mammals to have been trafficked. It is already considered an endangered species.

This has been a big catch from the authorities of China. These animals are small creatures with the size of a raccoon and its legs are the likes of an artichoke. The commercial trade for "Pangolins" had been internationally banned and yet there are those that still get the animals because of its high rate in the black market.

"Pangolins" are covered by the law with the strictest protection of animals internationally. Meanwhile, the shipment that came in to Shanghai came from Nigeria together with wood shipments. The uses for the scales are for alternative medicine for certain illnesses which is mostly practiced in China.