Bangalore (India): A pangolin was rescued from K R Puram on Thursday by People for Animals (PFA). Villagers who first found the seven kilogram animal were frightened by its scaly appearance, afraid that it was dangerous, they captured it in a gunny bag before notifying the NGO.

"We need to educate people about some of these rarer species," said Praveen, manager of PFA’s Bangalore operations. "Pangolins might look fearsome, but in reality they are shy, harmless creatures."

A few days ago, PFA also rescued a slender loris, a shy, nocturnal primate that is normally found in and around Hessargatta. The animal was found by residents of Rajajinagar and reported because of its interesting appearance.

"Slender lorises are a Schedule One endangered species," Praveen said. "They are often traded illegally because their striking eyes make them desirable to those who practise black magic. "These creatures are rare enough in their natural habitat. That they were found near humans is a real anomaly. It speaks of habitat loss." he said.

Both animals were dehydrated when found. PFA will release them into appropriate surroundings when they are in good physical condition.