pangolin

Pangolins are mammals in the order Pholidota, characterized by their protective scales made of keratin that cover most of the body. They are sometimes called scaly anteaters, though they are not true anteaters. Eight species are recognized, distributed across Africa and Asia. Pangolins occupy a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and grasslands, and most species are nocturnal and solitary. Some are arboreal, while others are terrestrial.

Anatomy and behavior: The body is elongated, with strong forelimbs and sharp claws adapted for digging into ant and termite nests. The scales provide mechanical protection and can help deter predators; when threatened, many pangolins roll into a tight ball. They lack teeth and have a long, sticky tongue specialized for feeding on social insects. Their sense of smell helps locate nest sites, and they typically forage on the ground or in trees, depending on the species.

Ecology and diet: Pangolins feed almost exclusively on ants and termites, using their tongues to capture prey and their digestive systems to process hard-shelled insects. Their reproduction rate is relatively low, with females usually giving birth to a single offspring after a gestation period that varies by species.

Threats and conservation: Pangolins are among the most trafficked mammals, hunted for meat and scales used in traditional medicine, and their habitats are increasingly fragmented. All species are legally protected in many countries, and international trade is regulated under CITES, with most inter­national trade prohibited. Conservation efforts focus on law enforcement, habitat protection, and rehabilitation programs. The IUCN Red List categories range from Endangered to Critically Endangered for several species.