Pangolins are unique mammals distinguished by the large, overlapping scales of keratin that cover their bodies. These shy, nocturnal animals are the only mammals known to possess this armor-like feature. There are eight different species of pangolins found across Africa and Asia, all of which share an obligate diet of ants and termites, captured using a remarkably long, specialized tongue. Despite their ecological importance as natural pest controllers, pangolins are currently the world’s most trafficked mammal, driven by demand for their meat and scales.
Birth and Early Development of Pups
Pangolin reproduction typically results in a single pup, though some Asiatic species occasionally give birth to twins or triplets. At birth, the pup is small, weighing between 80 and 450 grams. Their scales are soft and pale, often white or pinkish, but they harden and darken over the first few days of life.
The mother protects her newborn within a secure den, such as an underground burrow or a tree hollow. For the first few months, the pup relies entirely on its mother’s milk for nourishment. Once mobile, the mother carries the pup by allowing it to cling tightly to her tail or back while she forages.
If threatened, the mother immediately rolls into a tight ball, a defensive posture that protects the young inside her scaly armor. Pups begin to sample ants and termites as early as one month old, starting the dietary transition.
The Transition to Solitary Life
The period of dependence lasts for several months, during which the pup gradually transitions from a milk-based diet to the specialized insect diet of an adult (weaning). Weaning occurs around four to five months of age in some species. During this time, the juvenile must refine the complex foraging techniques necessary for its diet.
The young animal learns to use its powerful foreclaws to tear open termite mounds or ant nests, deploying its long, sticky tongue to extract the insects. As the juvenile grows, its scales fully harden, providing the full defensive capacity. The pup stays with the mother until it is ready to establish its own territory, typically before reaching sexual maturity.
This phase is crucial for skill acquisition, as the young pangolin learns the boundaries of its mother’s home range and identifies reliable food sources. Once independent, the sub-adult disperses to establish a solitary range. This dispersal marks the end of parental care, which can last up to two years.
Maturity Mating and Lifespan
Sexual maturity is generally attained when pangolins are about two years of age, though some data suggests this milestone may be reached earlier in certain species. As solitary creatures, males and females only seek each other out briefly for mating. Reproductive encounters can be competitive, with males sometimes engaging in tail-slapping fights to gain access to a receptive female.
The gestation period varies significantly across the eight species, ranging from approximately 70 days to over 140 days. Females typically breed once per year. Since pangolins are solitary, the male rarely remains with the female after mating, leaving the mother to undertake all parental duties.
Data concerning the lifespan of pangolins in the wild is limited. It is estimated they may live for over 20 years in their natural habitat, but this is difficult to verify. Captive pangolins have a recorded maximum longevity of just over 19 years. Poaching, habitat loss, and disease now significantly influence the actual lifespan of wild pangolins.