Save Vietnam's Wildlife (SVW), in collaboration with Cuc Phuong National Park and Pu Mat National Park, successfully released 15 Sunda pangolins back into the wild on April 19, 2023, bringing the total number of pangolins released by SVW so far this year to 22.

All of these animals were confiscated from illegal wildlife trade cases across Vietnam. After a long period of care and rehabilitation at the rescue center, the individuals were deemed ready for release, with the longest-staying individual having been there since early 2022.

Among the 15 individuals released this time, three were pregnant, and one was born in captivity. The release mission lasted for one day and one night, covering a distance of 600 km. Due to road subsidence caused by rain, the pangolins were transferred from transport crates into fabric bags to ensure the safety of both the animals and the team. The team then traveled deep into the release area by motorbike. Once released, the animals often travel long distances to find safe shelter. Before each release, the SVW research team analyzes the area to identify suitable habitats for the pangolins.

Pangolins, and all wildlife rescued by SVW, must undergo a quarantine period of at least 30 days to monitor their health, train their instincts, and control for diseases. Afterward, the individuals are evaluated for release based on criteria such as being healthy and disease-free, having a wild origin, and possessing the ability to defend themselves and forage in the wild. However, the time animals spend at the rescue center is often prolonged due to complex legal procedures, as these animals are evidence from illegal trade cases and must be declared public property before they can be released.

The Sunda pangolin (Manis javanica) is listed as Critically Endangered. Illegal trade of pangolins is punishable by up to 15 years in prison and fines of up to 15 billion VND (Article 244 of the 2015 Penal Code). Despite this, illegal hunting and trading remain highly complex issues.

Since its inception, Save Vietnam's Wildlife has successfully rescued nearly 1,700 pangolins, making it the world's leading organization for pangolin rescue. The center also provides funding, veterinary support, and technical care to enhance the rescue capacity of other units across the country. Approximately 60% of the rescued pangolins have been successfully released, contributing to the recovery of wild populations. SVW's camera trap research has captured numerous images of pangolins, including photos of newborns in the release sites.

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