Manis crassicaudata

**Indian Pangolin (Manis crassicaudata)** The Indian pangolin is a medium-sized mammal covered in overlapping keratin scales that serve as armor against predators. Adults typically measure 60-105 cm in length with thick, powerful claws adapted for digging into termite mounds and ant colonies. This nocturnal species feeds almost exclusively on ants and termites, using its long, sticky tongue to extract insects from their nests. When threatened, pangolins curl into a defensive ball. As specialized insectivores, they play a crucial role in controlling ant and termite populations in their ecosystems. The species ranges across South and Southeast Asia, including Bangladesh, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Indian pangolins inhabit diverse environments from tropical forests to arid shrublands and desert margins, preferring areas with sandy soils suitable for burrowing and abundant insect prey. The primary threat driving population decline is intensive hunting and trapping for international wildlife trade. Pangolin scales are highly valued in traditional medicine markets, while their meat is considered a delicacy in some regions. Habitat loss from agricultural expansion, logging, and pollution from agricultural runoff further compounds pressures on remaining populations. Conservation efforts include strengthening anti-poaching enforcement, international trade restrictions under CITES Appendix I, and habitat protection initiatives across range countries. Several nations have established pangolin-specific conservation programs and increased penalties for trafficking. Despite these measures, the species' outlook remains concerning. The Indian pangolin continues experiencing significant population declines due to persistent demand in illegal wildlife markets and ongoing habitat degradation throughout its range.