Pangolins feed almost exclusively on ants and termites. Specialized tongues, strong claws, and keen smell make them efficient hunters. They consume thousands of insects per night. Digestive systems are adapted to process chitin from exoskeletons. They often forage repeatedly in the same area. Feeding efficiency is critical to survival. Dietary specialization is key to evolutionary success.
Insect control by pangolins benefits ecosystem balance. They regulate populations naturally.
It shows specialization can reduce competition but increase vulnerability to habitat change. Their diet shapes their ecological role.
A single pangolin can eat over 70 million insects annually.
World Wildlife Fund (worldwildlife.org)