21/02/2026
Happy World Pangolin Day!
Did you know that pangolins are an important indicator of ecosystem health? As they are highly sensitive to change, a decline in their populations signals ecological problems like deforestation, poor soil condition, and pollution. This insectivore digs up soil while looking for food, enriching the soil with oxygen and contributing to overall soil fertility and plant growth. They are also very important for seed dispersal.
These critters have distinct scales on their bodies and a very unique appearance. However, this has caused them to become one of the most trafficked animals in the world!
Key Information:
🛡️ Only mammal with keratin scales (like human nails).
🔄 Rolls into a tight ball for defense.
👅 Tongue longer than body; attached near pelvis.
🐜 Eats millions of ants/termites yearly (natural pest control).
🌙 Nocturnal and solitary.
🌳 Some tree-dwelling, others burrow underground.
👃 Poor eyesight; strong sense of smell.
👶 Usually one baby; rides on mother’s tail.
🌍 8 species (4 in Africa, 4 in Asia).
⚠️ Most trafficked mammal; all species threatened.