Australian Bear Charity Saves Its First Pangolin in Laos

A Chinese pangolin on Sept. 30, 2019, after it was rescued by Perth-based charity Free The Bears in Laos. It was the first time the organisation saved one of the critically endangered species, which is covered in keratin scales that are prized in Asia in the mistaken belief they cure a range of ailments. AAP Images/Supplied by Free The Bears

Perth-based Free The Bears has saved its first pangolin, a critically endangered mammal that is the most trafficked animal in the illegal wildlife trade.

A Perth-based bear rescue charity has saved its first critically endangered pangolin as it seeks to safeguard a variety of animals in Asia, where its Laos sanctuary is expanding.