Question

Use the Pangolin Fact Sheet to make a collage giving interesting information on Pangolins.

Pangolin Fact Sheet
1. Indian Pangolin is included in Schedule I as per Indian Wild Life Protection Act 1972. That means they enjoy the same protection that tigers do.	6. One pangolin eats up as many as 7 crore ants / termites in a year.
2. They are included in the Red List of endangered species published by International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).	7. Even tigers and lions find it difficult to crack/eat a pangolin that has curled itself into a tight ball.
3. This is the only mammal to have scales on the body. The scales are made of a protein called Keratin. Our nails, hair, a rhino's horn all consist of Keratin. The scales on a pangolin's body comprise as much as 20% of its total body weight.	8. A pangolin uses its strong claws and tail to climb up a tree.
4. Pangolin scales are used in Chinese medicine and are in great demand. That has given rise to international smuggling of pangolin scales. However, it has been proven in many researches that Keratin has no medicinal properties.	9. Pangolins have a weak eyesight but a strong sense of smell.
5. Indian pangolins weigh from 10 to 20 kg. Females are smaller than the males. Their total length is 60 to 75 cm and the tail is 40 to 45 cm long.

Answer 1

Suggested Information for the Collage:

Title: Amazing Facts About Pangolins

1. Protection Status:
   • Included in Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife Protection Act (1972) (Same protection as tigers).
   • Listed as an Endangered Species by IUCN.

2. Unique Features:

   • Only mammal with scales made of keratin (same as human nails and rhino horns).
   • Scales make up 20% of their total body weight.

3. Diet and Behavior:

   • Eats 7 crore ants/termites per year.
   • Uses strong claws and tail to climb trees.
   • Rolls into a ball for defense (even tigers and lions struggle to break it open!).
4. Threats & Conservation:
   • Scales are in high demand for Chinese medicine (but keratin has no medicinal properties).
   • Illegal poaching and smuggling are major threats.
   • Conservation efforts include research and awareness programs.