Science could save the pangolin from poachers

The UK Border force may soon start taking “fingerprints” from endangered animals to deter poachers.

Officials are considering using a new technique developed by researchers at the University of Portsmouth and the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) which has seen them remove fingermarkings from the scales of pangolins.

The mammals – also known as scaly anteaters – are found in Africa and Asia but their numbers are dwindling because 300 are poached every day for their meat and medicinal qualities. The ZSL said the project was a “great example” of how agencies worked together to combat wildlife crime.