Thick-tailed Pangolin or Indian Pangolin

Description:

The Indian pangolin, thick-tailed pangolin, or scaly anteater (Manis crassicaudata) is a pangolin found in the plains and hills of India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and some parts of Pakistan. It is not common anywhere in its range. Like other pangolins, it has large, overlapping scales on its body which act as armour. It can also curl itself into a ball as self-defence against predators such as the tiger. The colour of its scales varies depending on the colour of the earth in its surroundings. It is an insectivore that feeds on ants and termites, using an extraordinarily long, sticky tongue, digging them out of mounds and logs using its long claws, which are as long as its fore limbs. It is nocturnal and rests in deep burrows during the day. Eight different pangolin species can be found across Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. Poaching for illegal wildlife trade and habitat loss have made these incredible creatures one of the most endangered groups of mammals in the world.

Habitat:

Seen wandering around Ramana Ashram. Ramana Ashram is at the foot of the holy hill, Arunachala, which has been being re-forested the last few years, and many animals and creatures that haven't been seen for years, are turning up again.

Notes:

It is hunted for its meat, which is considered tasty, and for making medicinal oil. Photo courtesy of David.