Pangolins are trafficked in high numbers. Estimates suggest that in the period 2000–2019 the equivalent of approximately 900,000 pangolins were illegally traded globally. This primarily occurs within Asia and Africa, and from Africa to Asia2 , but also involves Europe, North America, and other parts of the world. Trade can involve live and dead pangolins, their scales, and other body parts (e.g., skins). Live pangolins are commonly confiscated by local, regional or national law enforcement authorities in Asia and Africa and many are in ill health because of poor treatment in the illegal trade3 . Trafficking takes place despite legislation prohibiting the harvest of pangolins in most countries where pangolins are found and a ban on the commercial, international trade in wild-caught pangolins, which applies to all eight species. Part 1 of this guide is for first responders to instances of trafficking involving live pangolins, including police and customs officers, and other law enforcement agents. It provides guidance on the key steps that first responders should immediately take to give confiscated pangolins the best chance of survival - a period that may last from several hours to 1-2 days.