Pangolins are mammals, not reptiles. They are the only mammals whose bodies are covered almost entirely by protective scales. Eight recognised species live across Africa and Asia, but every species faces a high risk of extinction from habitat loss and exploitation.
This guide explains what pangolins eat, how their unusual bodies work, why they are trafficked, what conservation rules do (and do not) accomplish, and why no reliable current total exists for the number living in the wild.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
1. Pangolins are mammals, not reptiles
A pangolin may look reptilian because overlapping scales cover its back, sides, tail and head. Its biology places it firmly among mammals, however. Pangolins breathe air with lungs, give birth to live young and nurse their offspring with milk. Their scales are a remarkable mammalian adaptation rather than evidence of a reptile ancestry.
The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) describes pangolins as the only mammals wholly covered in scales. Their body plan is so unusual that people sometimes mistake them for armoured reptiles or anteaters. They are neither: pangolins belong to their own mammalian order, Pholidota.
#1 Best Overall
- Dog multivitamins chewable for skin & coat : Dog multivitamin is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E,which can relieve skin allergies,dryness,itching and other problems.Multivitamin for dogs nourishes skin follicles.Long-term consumption of dog vitamins multivitamin can make dog hair stronger and smoother,and reduce coat loss.The COQ10 in dog multivitamin chewable can resist oxidation and delay cell aging.Dogs with skin injuries can eat dog vitamins and supplements to promote wound healing
- Dog multivitamin relieves joint inflammation: Dog vitamins for hip and joint can supplement high-quality MSM, glucosamine, and chondroitin sulfate to promote cartilage development and repair. Long-term consumption of dog multivitamins chewable can enhance the elasticity and toughness of joint cartilage, improve joint flexibility, and move more freely. Dog multivitamin chews can reduce joint friction and relieve joint pain. Dog vitamins and supplements can prevent and improve dog joint problems
- Dog multivitamin chews are good for the gut: Vet-endorsed formula dog vitamins and supplements made from natural ingredients.Dog vitamins multivitamin chewables contain a rich blend of probiotics to support intestinal and digestive health.Dog vitamins for small dogs can regulate the balance of intestinal flora,help calcium absorption,and promote bone development.Dog multivitamins chewables improve energy metabolism,converting food into energy, making dogs more energetic in their daily activities
- Dog multivitamin chews protect overall health:Senior dog vitamins and supplements help improve blood circulation and prevent cardiovascular disease.Dog multivitamins chewable support normal liver function,promote liver detoxification,and improve negative mood.For dog with heart problems and older dog,taking dog vitamins and supplements in moderation is an auxiliary health care measure.Dog vitamins multivitamin helps enhance white blood cell activity,improve immunity,prevent infection and disease
- Dog multivitamins chewable promote brain development: The DHA in krill oil in multivitamin for dogs is an important component of the brain and retina. Dog vitamins and supplements can improve dog cognitive ability. When training puppies to learn basic commands, puppies who are properly supplemented with dog vitamins multivitamin will behave more intelligently and improve memory.Dog supplements & vitamins can prevent and relieve eye problems such as dry eyes and tear stains, and keep eyes healthy
2. There are eight recognised species, split between two continents
Scientists recognise eight living pangolin species. Four occur in Africa and four in Asia, a broad division reported by WWF and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The species differ in size, habitat and whether they spend more time in trees or on the ground, but all share the defining combination of scales, an elongated snout and a diet based largely on social insects.
| Group | Number of recognised species | General range |
|---|---|---|
| African pangolins | 4 | Parts of sub-Saharan Africa |
| Asian pangolins | 4 | Parts of South, Southeast and East Asia |
| Total | 8 | Two continents |
This continental count is not a substitute for a species-by-species assessment. Conservation categories, population trends and local threats can differ among the eight species, so a statement about “pangolins” should not be read as a precise description of every population.
3. They eat ants, termites and larvae without using teeth
Pangolins are specialised insect eaters. Ants, termites and their larvae make up the core of their diet. They have no teeth; instead, they use powerful claws to break into nests and a long, sticky tongue to collect prey.
According to WWF, a pangolin’s tongue can be longer than the animal’s body. It is anchored deep in the chest and can extend far into a termite mound or ant nest. Sticky saliva helps insects adhere as the tongue retracts. Pangolins swallow prey whole, and swallowed grit or small stones can help their muscular stomachs process food.
This feeding system is difficult to reproduce in captivity. A wild pangolin may visit many nests and select a changing mix of insects, while a captive animal needs an appropriately varied, nutritionally balanced substitute. That specialised diet is one reason a pangolin is not a practical household pet, even where possession is legal.
4. Their scales are made of keratin
Pangolin scales are made of keratin, the same structural protein found in human fingernails. Each scale grows from the skin and overlaps the next like roof tiles, leaving flexible gaps that allow the animal to walk, climb and curl.
Keratin scales are not detachable plates or mineral armour. They grow continuously and can wear at the edges. The arrangement protects vulnerable skin from bites and scratches when a pangolin pushes into an insect nest or encounters a predator. It also gives the animal its distinctive appearance, which has unfortunately made the scales a target for illegal trade.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchPC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Rank #2
- 8-in-1 Formula - Zesty Paws Multifunctional Bites are functional supplement chews with premium ingredients that support physical performance, antioxidants, hip & joint, heart, immune, skin, liver, & gut health for dogs of all ages, breeds, and sizes.
- Skin Health & Antioxidants – For animals with sensitive skin, this formula contains Cod Liver Fish Oil and Vitamin E to help maintain normal moisture and CoQ10 to help reduce oxidative stress.
- Hip, Joint & Performance Support - Each dog chew features OptiMSM, a premium form of MSM for muscular support, which works synergistically with the Glucosamine HCl and Chondroitin Sulfate in these chews for hip and joint support plus Cod Liver Oil and B-Complex Vitamins support normal physical performance.
- Gut Health & Probiotics - These chews also contain a six-strain Gut Health Blend (500 million cfu per chew) and a Digestive Health Blend to promote gut flora while supporting normal bowel function for dogs.
- Heart, Liver & Immune Health - Multifunctional Bites feature powerful antioxidants, premium CoQ10, Cod Liver Oil and Vitamins A, C, & E to promote healthy cardiovascular function, support liver health and enhance immune response.
The scales have no proven medicinal value. Buying products marketed as pangolin medicine, ornaments or curios supports demand for wildlife taken from the wild and may violate national or international law.
5. Curling into a ball is their signature defence
When startled, a pangolin can pull its head toward its chest, cover its face with its forelegs and curl its body into a tight ball. The overlapping scales then face outward, creating a difficult surface for a predator to bite.
WWF and WWF-UK also note that the tail can be used defensively. On some species the tail is muscular and sharply scaled, adding another barrier around the curled body. A pangolin does not rely on speed or aggression as its first response; remaining still and presenting the scales is usually safer.
This defence works against many natural predators, but it can leave a pangolin helpless when handled by people. A curled animal may be unable to escape a sack, vehicle or trap. The same adaptation that discourages a leopard or hyena cannot stop a determined trafficker.
6. Their secretive lifestyle makes them hard to study
Pangolins are generally solitary and most active at night. They may spend daylight hours in burrows or other concealed shelters, and several species climb or forage in trees. These habits mean that researchers can miss animals even where a population is present.
Rank #3
- COMPLETE 26-IN-1 DAILY WELLNESS FORMULA: Our advanced multivitamin for dogs is formulated to help support 26 vital nutritional areas as part of a daily routine. With essential vitamins A, C, D3, and E, these gummies help support the immune system and contribute to overall heart and brain health for dogs of all sizes.
- ADVANCED HIP AND JOINT MOBILITY SUPPORT: Formulated with Glucosamine HCl, Chondroitin, and MSM to help support cartilage health, joint flexibility, and everyday mobility — making them a great daily supplement for large breed dogs and active senior dogs.
- SKIN & COAT SUPPORT: Packed with Norwegian Salmon Oil and Biotin, our dog multivitamin helps nourish skin from within and supports a soft, glossy coat. Omega 3 fatty acids contribute to healthy skin and coat as part of a complete daily nutritional routine.
- PROBIOTICS & DIGESTIVE SUPPORT: Features a Six-Probiotic Blend (500 Million CFU) and Digestive Enzymes to help support gut health, smooth digestion, and nutrient absorption. Cranberry Powder is included as part of this comprehensive daily wellness formula.
- UNBEATABLE VALUE 250 COUNT JAR: Our 250-count jar provides lasting daily support in a delicious chicken flavor. Made in the USA in a GMP-certified facility, our soft chews are grain-free and suitable for puppies, adult, and senior dogs alike.
The Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute explains that nocturnal activity, burrowing and solitary behaviour complicate observation and field surveys. Detecting a pangolin is not the same as counting one: an absence from a camera trap or transect can mean the animal avoided the equipment, stayed underground or was active outside the survey window.
These sampling problems matter for conservation decisions. Reliable trends require repeated, well-designed surveys over time, not isolated sightings or reports from markets and seizures.
7. Their biology makes human care unusually difficult
Pangolins have unique dietary needs and are highly susceptible to stress in human care, according to the Smithsonian. Capture, transport, unfamiliar enclosures, noise and repeated handling can all create serious welfare problems.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Even a well-intentioned rescue cannot simply feed a pangolin ordinary pet food. Care teams must address insect nutrition, hydration, temperature, shelter, exercise and opportunities to forage. Veterinary treatment is complicated by the species’ specialised anatomy and by the limited clinical knowledge available compared with dogs, cats or livestock.
For the public, the practical rule is straightforward: do not buy, keep or attempt to rescue a pangolin privately. If you encounter one outside its normal habitat or suspect illegal possession, contact an authorised wildlife authority or rescue organisation rather than handling it yourself.
Rank #4
- Joint Health Supplement for Dogs: Cosequin is the #1 vet recommended retail joint health supplement brand, supporting joint health in dogs for over 25 years
- Contains Glucosamine for Dogs: Cosequin contains glucosamine hydrochloride (FCHG49) and sodium chondroitin sulfate (TRH122), plus methylsulfonylmethane (MSM). This unique combination of ingredients supports healthy joints
- For Any Breed or Size: Whether you have a young or senior dog, a small or large breed, Cosequin helps support their joint health
- Tasty Chews for Daily Use: Cosequin comes in a tasty chewable tablet, making daily administration easy and convenient
- Exceptional Quality: Cosequin is backed by science, undergoing thorough quality inspections to ensure your dog receives a safe, high-quality product. It is manufactured in the United States with globally sourced ingredients
8. All eight species face a high risk of extinction
The IUCN’s 2025 global assessment says all eight pangolin species face high extinction risk, driven chiefly by overexploitation and habitat loss. That wording describes a serious threat across the group, not an identical status for every species. Species-level Red List categories can differ, and WWF-UK’s 2024 overview notes that three species are Critically Endangered.
Habitat loss reduces access to termite mounds, ant colonies, cover and breeding sites. Roads, farms, logging and development can break continuous habitat into smaller patches. At the same time, poaching removes animals directly from the remaining landscape. A population may therefore decline from two pressures at once: fewer suitable places to live and more animals taken from those places.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →IUCN Director General Dr Grethel Aguliar summarised the situation: “Today, they are under immense pressure due to exploitation and habitat loss.” Protecting pangolins requires addressing both pressures rather than treating trafficking as an isolated law-enforcement problem.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.9. International trade rules are strict, but illegal trafficking continues
All eight recognised species were transferred from CITES Appendix II to Appendix I after the 2016 CITES CoP17 decision; the change took effect on 2 January 2017. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service describes Appendix I protection as banning commercial international trade in all eight pangolin species and their parts.
The ban sharply reduced reported legal international trade, but it did not end illegal trafficking. The IUCN’s 27 August 2025 release says organised trafficking remains extensive. Its analysis found that illegal trade routes span many countries, with pangolins moving through source, transit and destination markets.
Best Value
- Itch & Allergy Relief with Omega-3 for Dogs - with 500mg of Omega (EPA+DHA) per serving, our chewable supplement helps with hot spots, dry itchy skin, ease itching, irritated skin, stops shedding.
- Skin & Coat + Hip & Joint Supplement Combined - Omega 3 is a vital element to keep your pet active, support healthy hip and joints, brain, heart, immune health. Can be served with regular pet food.
- Bark&Spark Commitment - we are keen to give best to our furry customers and we take NO compromise when it comes to product quality. Our omega 3 bites are made in the USA, with human grade ingredients.
- Up to 3 Month Supply - with 180 salmon oil treats per jar you keep your pet healthy while not spending a fortune on overpriced supplements. Best value.
- Is Your Dog a Picky Eater? We stick to simple formulas rich in natural flavors, that could tempt a fussy eater. No hassle with pills, powder, tablets or capsules.
Trade restrictions are therefore necessary but not sufficient. Enforcement, prosecution, demand reduction, habitat protection and cooperation with communities in range countries all affect whether the rules work in practice. As Dr Matthew Shirley, Co-Chair of the IUCN SSC Pangolin Specialist Group and a report co-author, put it: “On-going pangolin trafficking and population declines underscore that trade bans and policy changes alone are not enough.”
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
10. Seizure figures show a crisis, not the total number trafficked
There is no reliable current global estimate of how many pangolins remain in the wild. IUCN states that updated population estimates are lacking. Because pangolins are difficult to detect and many illegal shipments are never found, seizure data cannot be converted into a living population total.
The most current global trade snapshot comes from IUCN’s 2025 report:
| Source and period | Reported figure | How to interpret it |
|---|---|---|
| IUCN, 2016–2024 | More than an estimated 500,000 pangolins involved in seizures across 75 countries and 178 trade routes | Detected seizures only; IUCN says they represent a fraction of illegal trade |
| U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, citing UNODC, 2000–2019 | More than 895,000 pangolins estimated trafficked globally | An estimate based on seizure data, not a complete count of animals traded |
| WWF, 2017–2019 in Asia | More than 609 confiscations involving 540,000 pounds of scales and 10,971 individual animals | An older, Asia-focused seizure summary with a different time window and measurement |
These figures should not be added together or compared as if they measured the same thing. They use different dates, geography and methods. IUCN also reports that only 32 CITES Parties, including 15 pangolin range States, supplied information in response to two questionnaires issued in 2024 and 2025. Inconsistent reporting limits what scientists can conclude about population status and conservation outcomes.
How you can help pangolins
- Do not buy pangolin products. Avoid scales, meat, leather, trophies and alleged medicinal products, including items sold online or promoted as traditional remedies.
- Report suspicious offers. WWF provides guidance on reporting suspected pangolin products offered online through the Coalition to End Wildlife Trafficking Online and its member companies: use the reporting information on WWF’s pangolin facts page.
- Support habitat and anti-poaching work. WWF-UK describes conservation support focused on reducing poaching, protecting habitat and strengthening law enforcement: see its pangolin conservation information.
- Share accurate information. Explain that pangolins are mammals, that scales are keratin rather than medicine, and that a trade ban has not eliminated illegal trafficking.
- Leave wild animals to qualified professionals. If you find a pangolin, keep your distance and contact local wildlife authorities or an accredited rescue group.
Better population surveys, transparent trade reporting, evidence-based demand reduction and collaboration with local and Indigenous communities are the measures IUCN identifies as priorities. Individual choices cannot replace those systems, but they can reduce demand and support the people working to keep pangolins in the wild.
Recommended Free Tools
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Leave a Reply