A pangolin is called ‘Saphu’ in Hmar Hills

A large number of ‘saphu’ or pangolins are found in the forests of Hmar Hills along the Manipur-Mizoram border. However, their numbers have gone down drastically over the last decade as the mammals are hunted not just for their meat but for their scales by the villagers. This endangered animal could soon become extinct in the region if the government and animal rights activists fail to create an awareness followed by action on the ground to save them. This photo was taken in December 2010 in Hmar Hills.