Mammals
Chinese Pangolin
Manis pentadactyla
At night on a forested hillside in southern China, a Chinese pangolin tears open a termite mound with its claws and licks up the insects, its armour of scales gleaming in the dark.
Overview
The Chinese pangolin, Manis pentadactyla, is a Critically Endangered scaly anteater of southern China, Taiwan, and parts of South and Southeast Asia. Its keratin scales, ball-curling defence, and heavy trafficking make it one of the most threatened and most recognisable pangolins.
An armoured anteater under pressure
The scales that protect the Chinese pangolin from predators have also made it a target of the illegal wildlife trade.
Status
Critically Endangered, with a decreasing population.
Chinese Pangolin: common questions
What are pangolin scales made of?
They are made of keratin, the same material as human fingernails.
How does the Chinese pangolin defend itself?
It rolls up into a tight, armoured ball when threatened, protecting its soft belly.
Why is the Chinese pangolin critically endangered?
It is heavily hunted and trafficked for its scales and meat.
Where is the Chinese pangolin found?
It lives in forest and grassland in southern China, Taiwan, and parts of South and Southeast Asia.