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Himalayan Pangolin

July 8, 2026

Researchers have revalidated and concluded that the Himalayan pangolin (Manis aurita) is a distinct extant species, separate from the Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla).

About Himalayan Pangolin:

  • Scientific name: Its scientific name is Manis aurita
  • It went through a demographic contraction around the 14th century, coinciding with the onset of the Little Ice Age in the Himalayan region.
  • Features:
    • It is significantly larger in body size and skull.
    • It paradoxically has markedly smaller ears. It also has a shorter and broader nasal bone.
    • It has enlarged olfactory bulb and turbinals, using smell to forage for ants and termites. 
  • Distribution: Its distribution is restricted to the southern Himalayan foothills, with confirmed populations in Nepal, South Tibet, and Northeast India, including the state of Assam.
  • Threats:
    • It is facing illegal wildlife trade.
    • The products from this species have infiltrated regulated traditional medicine markets.
    • It is also facing an internal threat of inbreeding.

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