Today, Romi introduces us to the Sunda pangolin, one of four species of pangolin found in Asia:
Take the pangolin quiz!
1. True or False: Pangolin scales are made out of the same substance as human hair and fingernails.
True! Pangolin scales are made from keratin – this is the same protein that makes up your hair and fingernails, and also rhinoceros horns.
2. Why do pangolins roll up into a ball when threatened?
Sunda pangolins have many predators, including tigers, leopards, wild dogs, and pythons. When a pangolin rolls into a ball, its soft belly is hidden and its tough scales act as protective armor.
3. Why is a pangolin’s tongue sticky?
The Sunda pangolin has a long, thin tongue coated in sticky saliva that it uses to pick up tasty termites and ants. The stickiness helps trap the insects so the pangolin can slurp them up!
Learn more about pangolins on Mongabay Kids!
https://kids.mongabay.com/pangolins-are-scaly-mammals-that-live-in-asia-and-africa/
https://kids.mongabay.com/hey-its-almost-world-pangolin-day/
