The World’s Most Wanted Animal

Filmmaker Victoria Bromley’s PBS-aired Nature documentary focuses on the extremely endangered mammals known as pangolins. Described as a “walking pinecone or a friendly little dragon,” pangolins are heavily trafficked for their keratin scales—used in traditional Asian medicines—and even for their meat. Estimated to be 35-55 million years old with eight distinct species—four in Africa and four in Asia—not much was reliably known about these private creatures until the work of conservationist Maria Diekmann, who is seen here negotiating to rescue a poached pangolin. Diekmann created her own REST endangered species organization and is aided by students who meticulously analyze creatures and take notes, heavily focusing here on Diekmann’s favorite little one “Honey Bun,” who has the distinction of being the first pangolin to have a recorded birth. From Namibia to the Save Vietnam’s Wildlife center to Hong Kong and a fruitful meeting with newfound pangolin advocate and social media star Angelababy, this engaging nature documentary shines a light on these gentle insect-eaters who are in jeopardy due to having scales that are more valuable than ivory. Highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (J. Williams-Wood)