Fascinating facts about the mysterious giant African pangolin

Few people know that the giant African pangolin can dig burrows extremely quickly, curl up like a living fortress and survive many harsh dangers.

The world's largest pangolin. The giant pangolin can grow up to 1.8 meters long and weigh more than 30 kg, making it the largest of the eight species of pangolins still living in the world. Photo: Pinterest.

Unique keratin scale armor. Their scales are made of keratin – the substance that makes up human hair and nails – and help protect them from predator bites. Photo: inaturalist.

Ability to curl up in self-defense. When threatened, the giant pangolin rolls up into a living steel ball, rendering most enemies helpless against its tough armor. Photo: guinnessworldrecords.com.

Master termite and ant hunters. With their sticky tongues up to 70cm long, they can reach deep into termite and ant nests and suck up thousands of them at a time. Photo: bornfree.org.uk.

No teeth to chew food. Giant pangolins have no teeth, instead they swallow small stones to help grind up prey in their stomachs. Photo: hearstapps.com.

Good swimming ability. Unlike many other pangolin species, the giant pangolin is well adapted to both burrowing underground and swimming in rivers and lakes. Photo: britannica.com.

Solitary by nature. This species usually lives alone, only coming together during the breeding season. Photo: National Geographic.

Critically endangered. Giant pangolins are now illegally hunted for their scales and meat, making them one of the most endangered mammals. Photo: alchetron.com.

Dear readers, please watch the video : When wild animals cry for help | VTV24.

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