All About Pangolins

Written by: Paige Leal

The typical image of a mammal would probably be one with fur, like a dog, cat, or bear. A pangolin completely breaks that expectation. Covered from head to tail in tough scales, this unusual creature looks more like a reptile than a mammal. In fact, pangolins are the only mammals in the world that have scales, making them one of nature's most unique animals.

There are eight species of pangolins found throughout parts of Africa and Asia. Depending on the species, they can live in forests, grasslands, and other habitats. Some spend much of their time climbing trees, while others stay mostly on the ground. Although they live in different environments, all pangolins share distinctive and interesting characteristics.

One of the most noticeable features of a pangolin is how its body is covered in a way that looks like armor. These scales are made of keratin, the same material that makes up human fingernails and hair. When threatened by a predator, a pangolin curls into a tight ball, using its scales as protection. This defense works well against many natural predators because the hard scales act like a shield.

Pangolins are expert insect hunters. Their diet mainly consists of ants and termites. Instead of using teeth to chew food, they rely on their long, sticky tongues to catch insects hidden inside nests and tunnels. Some pangolin tongues can even be longer than the animal's body. Strong claws help them tear open termite mounds and ant colonies so they can reach their next meal.

Despite their tough appearance, pangolins face serious threats. They are considered some of the most heavily trafficked mammals in the world, making them extinct. Illegal wildlife trade has caused populations to decline because people hunt them for their scales and meat. Habitat loss from human development also makes survival more difficult for many species.

Conservation organizations around the world are working to protect pangolins and raise awareness about their importance. Laws have been created to limit international trade. Researchers continue studying these animals to better understand how to help them recover.

Pangolins are not as known as other unique mammals such as the giraffe, but they are just as remarkable. From their protective scales to their incredibly long tongues, they are unlike any other mammal on Earth. Learning about pangolins reminds us that some of the most amazing animals are often the ones people know the least about.