Pangolins’ brown, tan, or yellow scales blend perfectly with leaf litter and forest soil. Curling into a ball amplifies camouflage. Predators often overlook them entirely. This cryptic appearance complements their nocturnal lifestyle. In dense forests, they are almost invisible. The combination of coloration, curling, and stillness is highly effective. Camouflage is a survival cornerstone.
It reduces predation risk dramatically. Detection by humans or other animals is minimized.
It’s an example of how appearance can be as vital as armor in survival.
Young pangolins often freeze motionless for hours when threatened.
CITES (cites.org)