The Indian Pangolin

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The Indian pangolin, aka scaly anteater or thick-tailed pangolin, is the larger of the described pangolin species, and can be found in Bangladesh, India, Southern Nepal, some portions of Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. They prefer partially sandy soil located in secondary forests, grasslands, desert habitats, and barren hills. Unfortunately, due to habitat loss at the hands of the lumber industry and ranching; hunting (for their meat and scales that are used in traditional medicine); and trapping, these incredible creatures are listed as Endangered by the IUCN. Their numbers are also decreasing. The most recent IUCN survey was conducted in 2019.

First the Stats…

Scientific name: Manis crassicaudata
Weight: Up to 29 lbs.
Length: Up to 48 inches
Lifespan: Up to 13 years

Now on to the Facts!

1.) These shy creatures are nocturnal (active at night).

2.) They retreat to their burrows during the daylight hours. Their burrows can be as deep as 19+ feet!

3.) Burrows are typically closed off during the day with loose soil to help hide the entrance from predators.

4.) Sans humans, tigers are their only natural predator.

5.) Indian pangolins are terrestrial (spend their lives on the ground), and semi-fossorial (spend part of their lives in their burrows).

But wait, there’s more on the Indian pangolin!

6.) When irritated, they produce a loud hissing sound.

7.) Ants, termites, and their larvae & eggs are all on the menu.

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