Some species of pangolins, especially the smaller ones, are excellent climbers. They use sharp claws and muscular limbs to ascend trees in search of ants and termites. Their scales don’t hinder flexibility—they can wrap around branches and maintain balance. Climbing also provides safety from ground predators. Tree burrows serve as resting spots. Young pangolins often learn climbing from mothers. Arboreal skills expand their ecological niche.
Climbing increases access to food and reduces predation risk. Vertical movement opens a whole new habitat layer.
It demonstrates how specialized armor doesn’t necessarily limit mobility. Evolution balances protection with agility.
Pangolins can climb trunks as tall as 5 meters in search of insects.
World Wildlife Fund (worldwildlife.org)