Pangolin Facts: Why This Endangered Animal Needs Your Help
If you’ve never heard of a pangolin before, you’re not alone. These shy, scaly mammals are one of the most unique creatures on Earth — and sadly, one of the most endangered. What is a Pangolin? Pangolins are sometimes called scaly anteaters , thanks to their overlapping keratin scales and diet of ants and termites. They live in parts of Africa and Asia, spending their nights digging for insects with their strong claws and using their sticky tongues to slurp up to 70 million bugs per year . Why Are Pangolins Endangered? According to conservation experts, pangolins are now the most trafficked mammal in the world . They face two main threats: Illegal Wildlife Trade – Their meat is eaten as a delicacy, and their scales are used in traditional medicine despite having no proven benefits. Habitat Loss – Deforestation and land development are destroying their natural homes. One pangolin is poached every five minutes — a shocking statistic that could push them to extinction if ...