Pangolins are peculiar and fascinating creatures that most people have probably never heard of. These scaly mammals look like armored anteaters and use their long tongues to slurp up ants and termites. While they may not be well-known, pangolins play a significant role in their ecosystem and are worth learning about.

Here are some fascinating facts about pangolins that you may not know:

1. Pangolins are the only mammals with scales.

Pangolins are the only mammals in the world that are covered in scales. Made of keratin, similar to human hair and nails, these tough scales protect the pangolin from predators and help it dig underground.

2. They roll up into a ball to protect themselves.

When threatened, pangolins will curl up into a tight ball, making it nearly impossible for predators to get past their tough scales. Some pangolins even have special muscles that allow them to “glue” their scales together, making them even harder to penetrate.

3. Pangolins are solitary creatures.

Unlike many other animals, pangolins are solitary creatures that prefer to live alone. They only come together to mate, and after their offspring is born, they go back to living independently.

4. There are eight species of pangolins.

There are eight different species of pangolins found in Africa and Asia. Unfortunately, all eight species are currently endangered due to habitat loss and poaching.

5. Pangolins are nocturnal.

Pangolins are nocturnal animals, meaning they are most active at night. During the day, they sleep in underground burrows or in the hollows of trees.

6. They have long tongues.

Pangolins have incredibly long tongues that can extend up to 16 inches! They use their tongues to lick up ants and termites, which make up the majority of their diet.

7. Pangolins have poor eyesight.

Despite their long tongues, pangolins have poor eyesight. They rely on their sense of smell and hearing to navigate their environment and hunt for food.

8. They are difficult to keep in captivity.

Pangolins are notoriously difficult to keep in captivity, as they have very specific habitat requirements and are sensitive to stress. In fact, many pangolins die shortly after being captured and brought into captivity.

Pangolins may not be the most well-known animals, but they are certainly fascinating creatures with unique adaptations that make them incredibly interesting to study. As we work to protect endangered species around the world, it is important to remember the crucial role that pangolins play in their ecosystem and to do our part to ensure their survival.