Pangolin

The Sunda Pangolin is a scaly, long-tailed, sticky-tongued anteater that is found in Indonesia and various other parts of Southeast Asia. Pangolins have a long tail, short powerful limbs, and a conical head. Although they may seem “cute and friendly” they are well equipped for self defence. When threatened they roll up into a ball and can lash out wight their razor sharp scales. Their long tail provides support and stand on two feet for speed.

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERApangolin 2

 

Pangolins diet include ants and termites. Although it is toothless, but it has a long tongue that it uses to lap up ants and termites. Although it has tiny external ears, it actually has good hearing, which helps to compensate for its poor eyesight.

They have been classified as  “critically endangered” in The Singapore Red Data Book (2008), which lists the threatened plants and animals in the country.

The main reason for their rapid decline in population is because they are hunted for their skin, meat and scales. Their skin is used as leather and their meat is considered a delicacy in Chinese cuisine. Their scales are believed to possess medicinal value, especially in traditional Chinese medicine, where the scales are used in remedies for conditions ranging from rheumatism to cancer. 

These animals habitats are usually found in forests, scrubland and plantations. Rapid urbanisation has led to the destruction of their natural habitat. Also a cause for the decline in pangolin population.