Pangolins

The seven species of pangolins, also known as scaly anteaters, are specialized for ant and termite eating. Manidae, the only family in the order, has one genus, Manis, which includes those living in Southeast Asia, and an African species that inhabits that continent's tropical and subtropical regions.

The body of a pangolin is covered in sharp, horny scales, giving it a distinctly reptilian appearance. Its conical skull and long tongue and tail only reinforce that false impression. Like the aardvark and the ant- and termite-eating xenarthrans, pangolins tear open termite mounds and anthills with powerful limbs and long, sharp claws. They capture their prey with the aid of their elongated snout and their long and sticky tongue, which is anchored to their pelvis. To make up for their lack of teeth, pangolins ingest small pebbles, which help break down the hard insects in the lower parts of their stomach.

The Pangolin Family Tree

order: pholidota

family: manidae pangolins

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