<p>Local ecological knowledge is acknowledged to be a valuable source of information about wildlife; however, it is not clear whether it can be mobilized appropriately for wildlife conservation. Using pangolins as a case study in Assam state, north-eastern India, we explored whether local ecological knowledge (LEK) and environmental values can inform the distribution and conservation of cryptic and threatened species. We employed semi-structured interviews to document forest-dwelling communities’ knowledge regarding species occurrence, habitat use, and population status and their beliefs and values in relation to pangolins. Findings from our study show that LEK is a reliable tool for detecting cryptic species, with older respondents exhibiting higher likelihood of pangolin recognition. Value analysis revealed a strong inclination towards illegal hunting and trade, highlighting the conservation challenges involved in protecting a cryptic wildlife species. We advocate the need to integrate LEK and environmental values for holistic conservation strategies of cryptic species.</p>