Pangolins are almost completely silent, lacking vocal cords that produce traditional calls. They communicate through pheromones and body language. This includes tail flicks, curling, and scent marking. Silence is essential for avoiding detection by predators. The lack of vocalization also reduces interference when foraging. Their communication system is subtle but effective. Survival depends on discretion.
Being silent reduces chances of predation dramatically. Less noise equals less attention from predators.
It shows that communication doesn’t always require sound. Subtle signals can be equally powerful.
Pangolins use scales as visual signals during interactions with other pangolins.
World Wildlife Fund (worldwildlife.org)