Pangolins, also known as scaly anteaters, are unique creatures that are covered in hard, plate-like scales. They are insectivorous (feeding on insects) and are mainly nocturnal. Their name, “pangolin”, is derived from the Malay word “pengguling”, which loosely translates to “something that rolls up”. Together, the eight species comprise their very own Order: Pholidota.
1. The pangolin’s closest relatives are carnivores, but they are the only mammals that are covered in scales.
2. Pangolin scales are made of keratin, just like our finger nails, and make up 20 per cent of their body weight.
3. The word ‘pangolin’ comes from the Malay word ‘penggulung’, which means ‘one that rolls up’. When it is threatened a pangolin will curl itself into a tight ball, which is impenetrable to predator
1. The pangolin’s closest relatives are carnivores, but they are the only mammals that are covered in scales.
2. Pangolin scales are made of keratin, just like our finger nails, and make up 20 per cent of their body weight.
3. The word ‘pangolin’ comes from the Malay word ‘penggulung’, which means ‘one that rolls up’. When it is threatened a pangolin will curl itself into a tight ball, which is impenetrable to predator
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