The Indian pangolin (Manis crassicaudata), thick-tailed pangolin or scaly anteater is a pangolin found in the plains and hills of India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and some parts of Pakistan. It is not common anywhere in its range. Like other pangolins, it has large, overlapping scales on the body which act as armour. It can also curl itself into a ball as self-defense against predators such as the tiger. The colour of its scales varies depending on the colour of the earth in its surroundings. It is an insectivore that feeds on ants and termites, digging them out of mounds and logs using its long claws, which are as long as its forelimbs. It is nocturnal and rests in deep burrows during the day.
It is hunted for its meat, which is considered tasty, and for making medicinal oil.
In Kerala, it is known as eenampechi. In Sinhala, it is called kaballewa and in Tamil azhungu or alangu.
Read more about Indian Pangolin: Description, Habitat, Diet, Reproduction, Behavior, Conservation Status
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