The pangolin is the only living mammal group covered in large overlapping keratin scales.
Pangolin scales are made from keratin, the same structural protein found in human fingernails and in many animal claws, horns, and feathers. The scales form a protective covering over much of the body, while the underside remains relatively soft.
When threatened, a pangolin can curl into a tight ball, presenting its scales to a predator. It also has a long, sticky tongue and feeds mainly on ants and termites. Pangolins lack teeth and use powerful stomach muscles and swallowed material to help process their food.
Pangolins are sometimes mistaken for armadillos because both can use body armor defensively, but they are not closely related. There are eight living pangolin species in Africa and Asia, and all face serious pressure from habitat loss and illegal trade.