Pangolins are primarily active at night to avoid predators and exploit insect availability. Darkness protects them from human detection as well. Nocturnal activity coincides with insect movement. They rely on smell and touch over sight. Nighttime foraging reduces competition with diurnal insectivores. Circadian rhythms are tightly tuned. Darkness enhances stealth when approaching termite mounds.
It decreases predation risk and maximizes food efficiency. Timing is critical for survival.
Nocturnal life shows how behavior can complement physical adaptations. Pangolins have evolved both body and schedule for stealth.
Pangolins often travel up to 2 kilometers per night for food.
World Wildlife Fund (worldwildlife.org)