Pangolins - misunderstood and mistreated
There are many misconceptions about pangolins. Despite not having any external ears, teeth and being covered with scales they are not reptile. The scales, which make up for 15% of its body weight, are made of keratin like human hair. And just like hair the scales which are overlapping each other like artichoke leaves grow throughout the life of the animal.
They have quite good hearing but rely mostly on their sense of smell to locate food (termites and ants). Because of their unusual look pangolins are seen as as magical creatures whose ground up scales allow to neutralize witchcraft, overcome evil spirits, control wild animals and weather. In some African countries they are hunted for their meat.
They have quite good hearing but rely mostly on their sense of smell to locate food (termites and ants). Because of their unusual look pangolins are seen as as magical creatures whose ground up scales allow to neutralize witchcraft, overcome evil spirits, control wild animals and weather. In some African countries they are hunted for their meat.
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