Endangered Pangolin Enjoying a Snack

ENDANGERED PANGOLIN SPOTTED ENJOYING AN ANT FEAST IN RAINFOREST
WITH PIX AND VID
By Shuk Yee Tsang
A rare white-bellied pangolin was filmed enjoying a snack of black ants in the rainforest.
The unusual sighting was captured by David Mugisha, a 29-year-old tourist guide and wildlife videographer from Uganda shot the moment in his home country.
The shy, nocturnal animal can be seen calmly feeding in its natural habitat, a moment that is rarely witnessed in the wild.
David, who has spent 11 years photographing and filming nature, said encounters with pangolins are extremely uncommon.
David said capturing the moment helps highlight the importance of protecting the species.
He added that community conservation efforts in Uganda are helping protect the species and their habitat.
He said: “In my videos, the pangolin was freely feeding on the black ants in its natural habitat.
“Pangolins are shy, nocturnal creatures, and encounters are rare.
" If you’re lucky enough to spot one, the excitement might leave you speechless.
“The pangolins’ story is heartbreaking; they’re the most trafficked mammals, yet so unique and vital to ecosystems.
“Capturing the animals in their natural habitat made me realise how storytelling through photography can drive conservation awareness.
“White-bellied pangolins play a key role in controlling ant and termite populations and maintaining ecosystem balance.”
END