Welcome to Fast Facts with Reasons for Hope!
I’m Carl Kerby. Today we’re exploring a mysterious creature … the pangolin.
That’s not a mandolin … no … this insectivore roams across Asia and Africa devouring up to 70 million ants, termites, and other invertebrates every year.
As they reach into a nest nose first, they close their ears and nostrils. Thick eyelids prevent them from being stung as they swallow their food whole into their stomach, along with some stones. These stones along with their spiny gizzards grind up the insects to help with digestion.
Their lightning quick tongue is up to 16 inches long. It actually connects to their body below the last set of ribs, deep in the chest cavity, where it rolls up when not in use.
This super sticky organ is just one of the perfect design features that makes the pangolin worth a second look.
So, we’ll do that in the next Fast Facts with Reasons for Hope. Hope to see you then … stay bold!
Carl Kerby is the founder of Reasons for Hope and co-creator of the DeBunked apologetic video series. His radio feature, Fast Facts, is heard weekly on VCY America, Saturdays at 9:25 AM Central.
