In this episode of our podcast, Conservation Conversation, we welcome back Richard Peirce, Wildlife Conservationist, Author and Film Producer. This time to chat about pangolins. Pangolins carry the sad moniker of being the most trafficked mammal in the world. Richard published his book, Scales of Injustice in June 2020. This would turn out to be a timely expose of the link between the illegal trade of pangolin and Covid-19. Richard explains how, in February 2020 while the novel corona virus (Covid-19) was fast spreading across the world, pangolins were thrust into the global spotlight when scientists discovered that the virus may have come to humans via bats and pangolins.

We hear of Richard’s experiences during his research for the book. From an endearing close encounter he and his wife Jacqui had, to the harrowing tales of time spent in East Asia, uncovering the ever increasing demand for pangolin scales and meat. What, if any, are the solutions to protect this endangered species? We debate a few ideas.

If you would like to learn more about Richard Peirce, his books and film, please see the following link: http://www.peirceshark.com/