Pangolins, sometimes known as scaly anteaters, are mammals of the order Pholidota. There are eight species of pangolins in total – four found in Asia and four found in Africa. The Asian species include the Chinese pangolin, Indian pangolin, Philippine pangolin, and Sunda pangolin. The African species include the Giant pangolin, White-bellied pangolin, Temminck’s pangolin, and Black-bellied pangolin.
The Chinese and Indian pangolins are listed by the IUCN as critically endangered due to their high levels of poaching for their meat and scales. The other six species are listed as vulnerable due to hunting pressures.
Pangolins have adapted to a variety of habitats including forests, grasslands, savannas, and deserts. They use their long claws to dig burrows for shelter or to search for food such as ants and termites. They also use their long tails for balance when climbing trees or walking on branches.
Pangolins are nocturnal animals that curl up into a ball when threatened or scared. This defensive behavior is why they have been nicknamed “scaly anteaters” since their scales act like armor against predators.
Overall, there are eight different types of pangolins – four from Asia and four from Africa – that vary in size and coloration but share similar behaviors and adaptations.
