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Very Interesting Junior

Creature Files / Mammals

Temminck’s pangolin

Armour made of scales

Weird but true

Pangolin scales are made of keratin, the same stuff as your fingernails.

More facts

  • Pangolins are the only mammals covered in scales.
  • When scared, a pangolin rolls into a tight, armoured ball.
  • Pangolins are threatened by illegal trade, so protecting them is important.