 The Indian pangolin. Scientifically known as Manis crassicaudata, commonly referred to as the thick-tailed pangolin or scaly anteater, is indigenous to the Indian subcontinent. This species is characterized by large, overlapping scales that serve as protective armor. The coloration of these scales is influenced by the soil in its habitat. As a defense mechanism, the Indian pangolin is capable of curling into a ball to shield itself from predators, including tigers.
Physical Characteristics of Indian Pangolin The Indian pangolin is shy and slow-moving nature. Measuring between 85 and 120 centimeters in length from head to tail, with the tail accounting for 30 to 48 centimeters, it typically weighs between 10 and 16 kilograms. Females are generally smaller than males and possess a single pair of mammary glands. The pangolin features a cone-shaped head with small, dark eyes and a long muzzle, with a nose pad that matches or is darker than its pinkish-brown skin. It has robust limbs ending in sharp, clawed digits. Although toothless, the pangolin's strong stomach muscles facilitate digestion. The dorsal and lateral sides of a pangolin, and the outside of its limbs, are covered with large overlapping scales composed of modified agglutinated hairs. Coarse bristle-like hairs occur on the under-surface of the body and a few between the scales. A defining feature of the Indian pangolin is its extensive scaled armor, composed of keratin, which covers its upper face and entire body, except for the belly and the inner sides of the legs. This armor includes 160 to 200 scales, with 40 to 46 percent located on the tail. The scales measure 6.5 to 7 centimeters in length and 8.5 centimeters in width, weighing between 7 and 10 grams each. The skin and scales constitute approximately one-fourth to one-third of the pangolin's total body mass. Types of Indian Pangolin Two species are found in the Indian subcontinent, namely the Indian Pangolin, Manis crassicaudata is widespread from the base of the Himalayas to south India, and in Sri Lanka; the Chinese Pangolin, M.pentadactyla, ranges through Nepal and the eastern Himalayas to Burma and southern China. Habitat of Indian Pangolin Pangolins are nocturnal in habit, spending the day in their burrows, which are long tunnels ending into a large chamber. Burrows may be fairly deep, about six metres in loose soil. The entrance of the burrow is closed with earth when the animal is inside. It walks slowly with the back well arched and sometimes stands up on its hind feet with the body inclined forward. The food of Pangolins consists of various kinds of ants and termites. The termite mould is torn open by the powerful claws and the pangolin thrusts its long tongue, lubricated with saliva, into the passages and withdraws it with white ants adhering to it. Pangolins roll into a ball for defence and exhibit enormous muscular power that defies any ordinary attempt to unroll them. Probably, stronger carnivorous can prey upon them. Distribution of Indian Pangolin The Indian pangolin has been observed in a range of forest environments, including the rainforests and plains of Sri Lanka, extending to middle hill regions. Its habitat includes grasslands and secondary forests, and it shows a notable adaptation to arid and desert areas. However, it tends to favor barren, hilly regions. In Sri Lanka, the Indian pangolin has been recorded at elevations of up to 1,100 meters, and in the Nilgiri mountains in India, it has been seen at altitudes of 2,300 meters. This species prefers soft and semi-sandy soil conditions that facilitate burrowing. Conservation of Indian Pangolin The Indian pangolin faces significant threats from poaching due to the demand for its meat and scales, which are utilized by local populations and increasingly traded on an international scale. Various parts of the pangolin are esteemed for their culinary and medicinal value. The scales are believed to have aphrodisiac properties and are fashioned into rings or charms, while the skins are processed into leather goods such as boots and shoes. Most hunting activities are conducted by nomadic groups and skilled local hunters. Among protected mammals, pangolins are the most heavily trafficked. Additional threats to the Indian pangolin include habitat loss due to deforestation. Since January 2017, the Indian pangolin has been listed in Appendix I of CITES, providing it with the highest level of international protection. It is also protected by law in all range countries. Several zoos, including Alipur Zoological Garden and Nandankanan Zoological Park, have reported successful breeding of Indian pangolins. |
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Indian Pangolin, Wild Animal
| Indian pangolin is a nocturnal mammal native to the Indian subcontinent, distinguished by its protective keratin scales. This solitary insectivore, adapted to various habitats including forests and grasslands, faces severe threats from poaching and habitat loss. |
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