A method for rapid assessment of the distribution and conservation status of Indian pangolin () in an extended geographical region.

Development of an effective conservation management strategy for the Indian pangolins () found in Sri Lanka is hindered due to lack of solid evidence based distribution and ecological data on Indian pangolins. We employed a rapid and cost-effective method based on reliable information by combining primary and secondary data. The method was predominantly based on secondary data from the official records maintained by the government and non-governmental institutions related to wildlife conservation. The primary data collection was carried out depending on the findings from the secondary data sources; i.e. structured interviews and field studies were carried out in the localities that identified from secondary data sources. As a source of primary data, the structured interviews were carried out with stakeholders including the officials of government and nongovernmental institutions, hunters and villagers of the identified localities.•This method allows collecting quick and accurate data on the distribution, habitats and conservation threats for the species.•Cost effective method to collect ecological data of elusive mammals in large areas.•Efficient method to identify trends of pangolin related crimes and illicit trade.