Pangolins have existed for over 60 million years. Fossils suggest ancestors had similar protective scales. Their evolutionary lineage has changed little, making them living fossils. Adaptations like scales and long tongues date back millions of years. They survived major climate and habitat shifts. Evolution preserved what worked. Pangolins are rare examples of long-term stability in mammals.
It highlights evolutionary success of specialized defense and diet. Longevity confirms survival strategies are effective.
Pangolins offer insights into mammalian evolution. They link modern and prehistoric life.
Fossil pangolins have been found in Europe and Asia.
National Geographic (nationalgeographic.com)