Shillong: The Meghalaya State Zoo has released a rescued Chinese pangolin and an Asian palm civet into the Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary after completing their treatment, rehabilitation and health assessments.
The release marks the successful rehabilitation of two rescued wild animals. The Chinese pangolin is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List and is among the world’s most heavily trafficked mammals, while the Asian palm civet plays an important role in forest regeneration through seed dispersal.
The Chinese pangolin was rescued by staff of the Nongpoh Wildlife Range from NH-6 near Jiva Restaurant in Nongpoh. The Asian palm civet was rescued from Jaintia Hills after it was found with serious injuries. Both animals were shifted to the Meghalaya State Zoo, where they received veterinary care and underwent rehabilitation.
After veterinarians certified both animals fit for release, the Meghalaya State Zoo and the Nongpoh Wildlife Range under the Khasi Hills Wildlife Division jointly released them into the Nongkhyllem Wildlife Sanctuary.
The release was carried out in the presence of Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) and Chief Executive Officer of the Meghalaya Zoo Project Implementation Society, P.K. Agrahari, IFS, Director of the Meghalaya State Zoo, Pavan Khade, IFS, and other forest department officials.
Speaking on the occasion, Agrahari said wildlife rescue, rehabilitation and release are integral to conservation efforts. He noted that the Chinese pangolin is protected under Schedule I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972, which provides the highest level of legal protection in India.
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He said the species continues to face threats from illegal wildlife trade and habitat loss, adding that the successful release reflects the department’s commitment to wildlife conservation and the welfare of rescued animals.
Agrahari also urged the public to inform the Forest Department whenever they encounter injured or distressed wild animals so they can be rescued, treated and released back into their natural habitat.
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