They keep ant and termite populations in check, and in doing so provide vital nutrient recycling back into the soil. This in turn provides a balance so that there is enough organic matter present for growth of new vegetation and to sustain all other wildlife in the food web. Having survived thousands of years of natural changes, they are now on the verge of extinction due to high levels of hunting and poaching for the illicit trade of their meat and scales. Their only weakness is their ingenious evolutionary strength of being hard and scaly. They cannot outrun poachers – they merely rely on rolling into a solid near impenetrable ball for protection. This is not so effective for a predator such as man.
Vineyard Friends, a wine by Douglas Green, is a sustainable winery dedicated to crafting wines that are in harmony with nature. With a focus on ethical, regenerative, and sustainable farming practices, Vineyard Friends nurtures the land and its inhabitants to craft exceptional wines that give back to the environment.
Through this partnership, Vineyard Friends will support the project’s ongoing initiatives, and raise awareness about the critical conservation efforts needed to protect pangolins.
“We’re thrilled to be supported by Vineyard Friends, a brand that truly embodies sustainable winemaking,” say Brian van Aswegen and Chris Renshaw, directors of Conserv Earth and drivers of Project Pangolin. “Their commitment to nature’s well-being resonates deeply with our goal to protect these remarkable animals. Together, we hope to inspire wine lovers and nature enthusiasts alike to become advocates for pangolins and the environments they call home.”
Pangolins are more than just another species; they are nature’s friend, and Vineyard Friends believes in protecting every friend. This partnership is not only a reflection of Vineyard Friends’ values but also a testament to what is possible when businesses and conservationists come together.
The Project
In essence, Project Pangolin is a Collaboration between Conserv Earth, the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve (SSNR) and Vineyard Friend Friends, to erect a pangolin friendly buffer fence in front of the existing electric fence to effectively stop pangolin electrocutions. This was PHASE 1, and we are thrilled that this has been completed. A great achievement by all. Phase 2, will focus on further defining and continuing the research project that has also implemented in association with the University of Pretoria and the MTPA to develop a national pangolin DNA database and to learn more about their population demographics as well as general movements. As the SSNR is one of only two approved release sites on Mpumalanga, rehabilitated pangolins can be released on the reserve. This recently became a reality when the SSNR released and monitored a female pangolin that was recused from the illegal wildlife trade. This pangolin is now healthy, wild and free, and it is a real testament to the success of Project Pangolin.
R1 300 000 for materials and labour, and the maintenance going forward.
R500 000 for a vehicle for the pangolin co-ordinator, Ros-Amy.
R200 000 for scaling to project and research aspect
