Curling into a ball is their signature defense. Scales overlap like armor plating. No part of the soft underbelly is exposed. Rolling is instinctive from a young age. Even human handling triggers the behavior. Predators struggle to bite or pry open a pangolin. This defense has likely saved countless lives.
Curling reduces injury and stress from attacks. Scale arrangement maximizes protection.
It illustrates that behavioral and physical adaptations work together. Defense is multi-layered and effective.
Pangolins’ curl can withstand pressures over 100 kilograms from predators.
Smithsonian National Zoo (si.edu)