pangolins

Pangolins are mammals in the order Pholidota, the only mammals covered almost entirely in overlapping keratin scales. There are eight species, native to Africa and Asia, and they are divided into arboreal (tree-dwelling) and terrestrial (ground-dwelling) groups. Their bodies are narrow with a short head, elongated snout, and limbs equipped with long, curved claws.

They are toothless and rely on an extremely long, sticky tongue to capture ants and termites. They have a keen sense of smell to locate insect nests. When threatened, pangolins roll into a tight ball, shielding their undersides with the scales, which serve as armor against predators.

Arboreal pangolins climb and forage in trees, while terrestrial species dig into termite mounds and anthills on the ground. They typically lead solitary lives, meeting only to mate. Reproduction varies by species, with a single offspring common per birth; the young cling to the mother for a period before dispersing.

Pangolins face severe threats from habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade for meat and scales. All eight species are protected under international law, with many listed in CITES Appendix I; poaching and trafficking remain major conservation concerns. Efforts include anti-poaching measures, habitat protection, and rehabilitation programs to support population recovery.