Pangolins, also known as “scaly anteaters”, are unique creatures that are found in Asia and Africa. They are the only mammals in the world that are covered in protective scales made of keratin, similar to our fingernails.
Here are some interesting pangolin facts for kids.
1. Pangolins are nocturnal
Pangolins are most active at night and sleep during the day. They are shy and solitary animals and are rarely seen by humans.
2. Pangolins have no teeth
Pangolins do not have teeth in their mouths. Instead, they use their long, sticky tongues to capture ants and termites, which they feed on exclusively.
3. Pangolins are excellent climbers
Despite their heavy appearance, pangolins are skilled climbers and can easily climb trees to escape predators or to reach their food.
4. Pangolins can roll into a ball
When threatened, pangolins have a unique defense mechanism – they curl up into a tight ball, with their sharp scales pointing outward. This protects them from predators such as lions and tigers.
5. Pangolins are endangered
All eight species of pangolin are currently listed as endangered, with some critically endangered. They are hunted for their meat, which is considered a delicacy in some countries, as well as for their scales, which are used in traditional medicine.
6. Pangolins are slow movers
Despite having strong legs, pangolins are slow-moving animals, with a top speed of about 5 km/h. They often move in a rolling gait, similar to that of an armadillo.
7. Pangolins have poor eyesight
Pangolins have poor eyesight but have an excellent sense of smell, which they use to locate ants and termites. They also have long claws that they use to dig into termite mounds.
8. Pangolins are covered in scales
Pangolins are covered in overlapping scales made of keratin, the same protein found in human hair and nails. The scales provide the pangolin with protection from predators and are also used in traditional medicine.
