Pangolins usually give birth to one offspring per year. Gestation lasts about 5 months depending on species. Mothers carry the young on their tails until they are independent. Low reproduction makes population recovery difficult. Poaching impacts are magnified due to slow birth rates. Young learn foraging behaviors from mothers.
It emphasizes vulnerability to human exploitation.
Population recovery requires long-term conservation strategies.
Pangolins may take 2–3 years to reach sexual maturity.
World Wildlife Fund (worldwildlife.org)