Pangolins are the only scaled mammal in the world. Also known as the “scaly anteater”, a pangolin’s body is largely covered in scales made up of keratin —the same material as human fingernails.
While I was reading we ran into the query “How do you recognize a pangolin?”.
Our answer is that these solitary, primarily nocturnal animals, are easily recognized by their full armor of scales . A startled pangolin will cover its head with its front legs, exposing its scales to any potential predator. If touched or grabbed it will roll up completely into a ball, while the sharp scales on the tail can be used to lash out.
How many species of pangolin are there?
Pangolins are threatened by poaching (for their meat and scales) and heavy deforestation of their natural habitats, and are the most trafficked mammals in the world . Of the eight species of pangolin, four ( Phataginus tetradactyla, P. tricuspis, Smutsia gigantea, and S. temminckii) are listed as vulnerable,.
The most common answer is; though many think of them as reptiles, pangolins are actually mammals . They are the only mammals wholly-covered in scales and they use those scales to protect themselves from predators in the wild.
Do pangolins live on the ground?
Most live on the ground, but some, like the black-bellied pangolin, also climb trees. They range in size from a large housecat to more than four feet long. They are largely covered in scales made of keratin—the same material as human fingernails—which gives them the nickname “scaly anteater.”.
Life span in the wild is unknown; however, some captive animals have lived as long as 20 years . A pangolin rolled into a ball presenting erected scales to the enemy. All pangolin species have been hunted for their meat, and the organs, skin, scales, and other parts of the body are valued for their use in traditional medicine.
What do pangolins Think About You?
Pangolins are among the most widely poached mammals —their scales are in demand for use in traditional Chinese medicine. When I looked into their eyes, it seemed that they were thinking no less about me than I about them.