9 Facts About Pangolins the Scaly Wonders of the Animal Kingdom

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They're the only mammal covered in scales

Imagine a scaled mammalian species, the only one of its type. Our hair and nails are strengthened by keratin, which makes these scales necessary.

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Their main food source is insects

They relentlessly hunt ants, termites, and other pests with their long, sticky tongues. A single pangolin may consume a staggering in a year.

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They're most active at night

Nocturnal pangolins are active at night. They sleep in burrows or tree hollows. Pangolins don't socialize and only mate.

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They close their ears and nostrils while they're eating

Without proper protection, consuming termites and ants is difficult. After finding the delectable food, pangolins cover their ears and noses to keep pests out.

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They curl up in a ball when they're scared

If a predator persists, the pangolin releases a foul aroma from glands near its anus, deterring even the most desperate attacks.

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They benefit the environment

They aerate the soil by churning it with their long claws while digging for food. This enhances water absorption, soil nutrient retention, and plant development.

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They're great swimmers

Pangolins are versatile, climbing trees, digging burrows, and swimming. They can survive in many ecosystems due to their versatility.

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Babies are (adorably) called "pangopups"

Their soft scales harden within days of birth, preparing them for the hardships ahead. In their first few weeks, they ride on their mother's tail, which is adorable.

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They don't have teeth

In an amazing adaption, pangolins ingest tiny stones and grains of sand to crush their food in their stomachs.