Most pangolins are found in Asia , though there are a growing number in Africa, too. Altogether, there are eight species of pangolin, and all of them range from “vulnerable” to “ critically endangered ” status, as ranked by the WWF. Four pangolin species live in Africa:.
A common question we ran across in our research was “Where do pangolins come from?”.
Some think that pangolin, any of about eight species of armored placental mammals of the family Manidae. The name pangolin, from the Malay for ‘rolling over,’ refers to its habit of curling into a ball when threatened. Pangolins are found in tropical Asia and Africa and are 30 to 90 cm (1 to 3 feet) long exclusive of the tail.
We can dig in! the name pangolin, from the Malay meaning “rolling over,” refers to this animal’s habit of curling into a ball when threatened . Pangolins—which are typically classified in the genera Manis, Phataginus, and Smutsia —are found in tropical Asia and Africa.
Where do pangolins live in Africa?
They prefer sandy soils and can be found in woodlands and savannas that are within reach of water. They are dispersed throughout Southern, Central, and East Africa .
How big do pangolins get?
These species range in size from 30 to 100 cm (12 to 39 in). A number of extinct pangolin species are also known. Pangolins have large, protective keratin scales , similar in material to fingernails and toenails, covering their skin; they are the only known mammals with this feature. They live in hollow trees or burrows, depending on the species.
Do pangolins climb trees?
Another Asian species, the India or thick-tailed pangolin is mostly found on the Indian subcontinent where it prefers to live in the forests. Although this species does not climb trees , it prefers to live amongst the low shrubbery of the forest floor.