Pangolin (order Pholidota)

Mammal Insectivore Conservation priority

Overview

Pangolins are unusual mammals covered in large, overlapping scales of keratin — the only mammals to have them. The eight living species, divided between Africa and Asia, are specialised ant- and termite-eaters and are often called “scaly anteaters,” though they are not close relatives of true anteaters. The animal shown here is the Sunda pangolin (Manis javanica).

Shy, mostly nocturnal, and rarely seen, pangolins have become one of the most talked-about animals in conservation because of the pressure placed on them by illegal trade.

Conservation note: all pangolin species are recognised as being of conservation concern, widely reported as affected by trafficking and habitat loss. Because status differs by species and is updated over time, verify current status at iucnredlist.org.

Classification

Pangolins form their own order, Pholidota, separate from other insect-eating mammals. Their resemblance to anteaters and armadillos reflects similar lifestyles rather than close relationship.

Habitat & Range

Pangolins occur across parts of Africa and Asia in a range of habitats, including forest, savanna, and scrub. Some species are mainly ground-dwelling and dig burrows, while others are skilled climbers that use tree hollows. All depend on a good supply of ants and termites.

Diet & Feeding

Pangolins are specialist insectivores, feeding almost entirely on ants and termites. Lacking teeth, they rip open nests with strong claws and gather insects on an extremely long, sticky tongue. They swallow small stones and grit that, with muscular stomach action, help grind their food.

Behavior & Defence

Most pangolins are solitary and nocturnal, sheltering in burrows or tree hollows by day. Their signature defence is to curl into a tight ball, with the tough scales protecting the soft underparts and head — effective against many natural predators. They can also lash with the scaled tail and release strong-smelling secretions.

Appearance & Recognition

Pangolins are immediately recognisable: a body armoured in brownish overlapping scales, a long tail, a small pointed head, short powerful limbs with large digging claws, and no external teeth. The scales cover the back, sides, limbs, and tail, while the face and belly are soft. No other mammal looks quite like a pangolin.

Human Interaction & Conservation

Pangolins are widely reported as heavily affected by illegal hunting and trafficking for their scales and meat, in addition to habitat loss. International protection and anti-trafficking efforts are central to their conservation. Given how much attention and change surrounds this issue, rely on current, authoritative sources such as the IUCN Red List for status.

More photos of the pangolin