Pangolins, often referred to as scaly anteaters, are unique mammals recognized by their protective, overlapping scales made of keratin, similar to human fingernails. These fascinating creatures are not “friendly” in the way humans might understand the term. Their behaviors are primarily driven by survival instincts in their natural habitats rather than an inclination for social interaction with people.
Pangolin Behavior and Temperament
Pangolins are predominantly nocturnal, meaning they are active at night, and they lead solitary lives, typically only coming together to mate. Their specialized diet consists mainly of ants and termites, which they locate using a keen sense of smell and then consume with their remarkably long, sticky tongues. An adult pangolin can consume an estimated 70 million insects annually, playing a role in regulating insect populations.
When threatened, a pangolin’s primary defense is to curl tightly into an armored ball, tucking its head and limbs inside its tough, scaled exterior. This protects their vulnerable undersides and deters predators, including large cats. They can also emit a foul-smelling secretion as a deterrent. Pangolins generally move in a slow, deliberate manner, reflecting their cautious and reclusive temperament.
Interactions with Humans
Encounters between pangolins and humans in the wild are rare due to the animals’ nocturnal and secretive habits. When such an encounter occurs, a pangolin’s immediate response is typically to flee the scene. If cornered or startled, they will instinctively assume their defensive posture. Pangolins pose no threat to humans; they are not aggressive and do not bite. Their inherent wariness of humans is unfortunately justified, as pangolins are the most trafficked mammals globally, primarily due to demand for their scales and meat in some traditional practices.
Why Pangolins Aren’t Pets
Pangolins are wild animals and cannot be domesticated like common household pets. Their highly specialized dietary needs, consisting of specific species of ants and termites, are nearly impossible to replicate in a domestic environment. Captive pangolins often suffer from severe health issues, including digestive problems and starvation, because artificial diets do not meet their nutritional requirements.
Their solitary and nocturnal nature means they do not thrive in human-centric environments. Stress and disease are common causes of mortality for pangolins in captivity, with many dying within months of being removed from the wild. Furthermore, it is illegal to own pangolins in most parts of the world due to their endangered status and protection under international laws like CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora). These regulations underscore that pangolins belong in their natural habitats, not in human homes.