The Mysterious Link Between Columbus, The Pope, and The Templars . One of the most enduring names in the story of the modern world is that of Christopher Columbus—navigator, explorer, and agent of European expansion into the New World. Traditionally portrayed as a Genoese weaver’s son who rose through grit and daring seamanship, Columbus’ life contains unexplained silences, gaps in documentation, and curious privileges that have led many to ask: who was he, really?
Evidence of Early 16th Century Portuguese Activity in Nova Scotia - Terry J. Deveau - 30 April 2024
On June 7, 1494, Spain and Portugal signed the Treaty of Tordesillas, fixing a meridian of longitude 370 leagues to the west of the Cape Verde Islands as a line of demarcation. New World lands to the west of this line would be considered Spanish possessions, and east of it, Portuguese. Due to poor accuracy in determining longitude on sea voyages, all of what is now called Atlantic Canada was considered by Portugal to be under its dominion, despite that by modern standards for the meridian (49.75W or less), none of it would be. In the first half of the 16-th century, several Portuguese navigators undertook exploration voyages to Nova Scotia, resulting in many maps that portrayed the coastline in surprising accuracy, with some locations given names that have survived in similar form down to this day. There were also several attempts by Portuguese interests to establish permanent settlements and colonies here in that period. The presentation will summarize what is known about these activities and review the pertinent evidence that has come to light in that regard.
In a stunning scientific revelation that has shocked both wildlife biologists and cryptozoologists alike, researchers claim to have discovered what they’re calling an “electric pangolin” in the remote regions of the Mojave Desert. This discovery has ignited fierce debate within the scientific community, with some experts questioning the validity of these findings while others hail it as a potential breakthrough in our understanding of evolutionary adaptation. The alleged creature, which appears to combine mammalian characteristics with unprecedented bioelectric properties, has become the subject of intense scrutiny and investigation.
According to reports from a team of researchers led by Dr. Eleanor Vasquez from the Institute of Desert Ecology, the unusual specimen was first observed during a routine biodiversity survey in the eastern section of the Mojave Desert in late 2023. The research team initially mistook the creature for a standard North American porcupine until they noticed unusual blue-white illumination emanating from between its scales during nighttime observations. “We were completely unprepared for what we were seeing,” Dr. Vasquez stated in her preliminary report. “The animal displayed all the physical characteristics of a pangolin—scaled body, long snout, powerful digging claws—but with the addition of what appeared to be bioelectric nodes distributed across its armor plates.”
Physical Characteristics
Pangolin. Image via Unsplash
The specimen, temporarily designated Manis electrica (pending formal taxonomic classification), measures approximately 85 centimeters in length and weighs roughly 12 kilograms, placing it within the size range of known pangolin species. However, its most distinctive feature is the presence of specialized scale formations that appear to function as capacitors, storing electrical energy. Microscopic examination of shed scales reveals unusual crystalline structures embedded within the keratin matrix. These structures bear a passing resemblance to the electrocytes found in electric eels but with a significantly different cellular architecture. The scales exhibit a faint blue luminescence under low-light conditions, particularly when the animal is agitated or hunting.
The presence of a pangolin-like creature in North America represents a significant biogeographical anomaly. Traditional pangolin species are native to Asia and Africa, with no historical evidence of pangolin populations in the Americas. Dr. Javier Rodriguez, a paleontologist consulted on the discovery, suggests several possibilities: “We’re looking at either an extraordinarily improbable case of convergent evolution, an undocumented introduction of Asian pangolins that have rapidly adapted to desert conditions, or—most controversially—potential evidence of artificial genetic engineering.” What makes the discovery even more perplexing is the electric capability, which has no precedent in any known pangolin species or their evolutionary relatives.
Preliminary observations indicate that the electric pangolin can generate electrical discharges of approximately 50-80 volts—modest compared to electric eels but significant for a terrestrial mammal. These discharges appear to serve multiple purposes, including stunning prey (primarily ants and termites), deterring predators, and potentially aiding in communication between individuals. Dr. Sophia Chen, a biophysicist who joined the research team, has documented the animal using controlled electrical pulses to collapse small insect colonies, making prey collection more efficient. “What we’re seeing is a sophisticated biological adaptation that combines energy efficiency with predatory effectiveness. The electrical field it generates can disrupt the neurological systems of insects within a 10-centimeter radius,” Dr. Chen explained.
The electric pangolin appears to have established a niche in the Mojave Desert ecosystem, inhabiting abandoned rodent burrows which it modifies with its powerful front claws. Researchers have identified several distinct burrow systems across a 5-square-kilometer area, suggesting a small but established population. The creature’s scales, beyond their electrical properties, provide excellent protection against the harsh desert conditions, reflecting solar radiation during the day while retaining body heat at night. Infrared imaging shows remarkable temperature regulation capabilities, with the animal maintaining a nearly constant body temperature despite extreme environmental fluctuations. This adaptive advantage may explain how the species has managed to establish itself in such an inhospitable environment, assuming it is indeed a recently introduced species.
Like traditional pangolins, the electric variant appears to be primarily insectivorous, with a diet consisting mainly of ants and termites. However, trail cameras have captured footage of the creatures feeding on small desert lizards as well, suggesting a broader diet than their conventional counterparts. The most fascinating aspect of their feeding behavior involves their electrical capabilities: the pangolins have been observed using low-voltage pulses to stimulate increased ant activity, effectively “herding” the insects into more accessible clusters before consuming them. This represents a previously undocumented hunting strategy that combines tool-like use of biological electricity with instinctual foraging behavior.
Scientific Skepticism
Pangolins in their natural habitat nature’s pest controllers and important soil engineers playing a vital role in maintaining ecological balance Philippine Pangolins by Gregg Yan via pixabay.
The scientific community remains divided on the legitimacy of the electric pangolin discovery. Dr. Marcus Thompson, a renowned zoologist from Harvard University who was not involved in the study, expressed significant doubts: “Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence, and while the preliminary data is intriguing, we need to rule out more mundane explanations before accepting the existence of an electrically-capable, North American pangolin species.” Critics have suggested possibilities ranging from misidentification of known species to elaborate hoaxes, pointing to the lack of genetic sampling and peer-reviewed documentation. Some have specifically questioned the electrical measurements, suggesting they might be artifacts of static electricity common in desert environments rather than biologically generated currents.
Despite the ongoing verification process, conservation authorities have taken preliminary steps to protect the potential new species. The Bureau of Land Management has temporarily restricted access to the discovery site pending further investigation, citing both scientific integrity concerns and potential conservation needs. If verified, the electric pangolin would immediately qualify for endangered species protection, given its apparently limited population and restricted habitat range. Conservation biologists have noted that the discovery, if confirmed, would raise challenging questions about management protocols for potentially introduced species that display unique evolutionary adaptations. Dr. Vasquez has advocated for a measured approach: “Whether this represents a natural evolutionary marvel or an introduced species, our primary responsibility is to understand and protect this creature while we determine its origins and ecological role.”
Beyond its biological significance, the electric pangolin has attracted attention from bioengineers and materials scientists. The creature’s ability to generate, store, and discharge electricity using organic structures could have profound implications for sustainable energy technology. Dr. Nathan Kim, a biomimetics specialist consulted on the findings, expressed cautious excitement: “If we can understand and replicate the mechanism by which these scales store and release electrical energy, we might develop new paradigms for biological batteries or solar storage systems.” Several research institutions have already submitted proposals to study shed scales from the specimens, hoping to identify novel approaches to energy storage that mimic the pangolin’s apparently efficient biological system.
Interestingly, there exist scattered historical accounts that might corroborate the presence of unusual fauna in the Mojave region. Local indigenous narratives, particularly among the Chemehuevi people, include references to “glowing armored creatures” that would emerge at night to feed. These accounts were generally dismissed as mythological by earlier anthropologists, but the current discovery has prompted renewed interest in these traditional stories. Additionally, reports from 19th-century prospectors occasionally mentioned encounters with “shining armadillos” that would deliver painful shocks when touched. While these historical references remain anecdotal, they suggest the possibility that the electric pangolin, or something similar, may have existed in the region longer than initially suspected.
Research Challenges
Pangolin. Image via Depositphotos.
Studying the electric pangolin presents numerous methodological challenges. The creatures appear to be primarily nocturnal and extremely shy, retreating rapidly into their burrows at the first sign of human presence. Additionally, their electrical capabilities make traditional tracking and capturing methods potentially dangerous to both researchers and the animals themselves. The research team has developed specialized equipment, including insulated handling tools and Faraday-cage-inspired containment systems, to safely interact with the specimens when necessary. DNA sampling has proven particularly challenging, as conventional collection methods risk damaging the sensitive bioelectric structures. Non-invasive techniques, including collecting shed scales and environmental DNA from burrows, have yielded only fragmentary genetic information thus far, insufficient for comprehensive genomic analysis.
Future Research Directions
Pangolin. Image via Depositphotos.
The research team has outlined an ambitious agenda for further investigation. Primary objectives include obtaining complete genomic sequencing to determine evolutionary relationships, developing non-invasive monitoring techniques to assess population size and distribution, and conducting controlled experiments to precisely measure and characterize the bioelectric capabilities. Additionally, researchers hope to observe social interactions between individuals to determine whether the electric signals serve communication purposes beyond hunting and defense. Dr. Vasquez has secured preliminary funding for a two-year comprehensive study, with preliminary results expected by early 2025. “We stand at the threshold of what could be one of the most significant zoological discoveries of the century,” she noted. “Our responsibility is to approach this with methodical scientific rigor while respecting the welfare of these remarkable creatures.”
Conclusion
The ground pangolin (Smutsia temminckii), also known as Temminck’s pangolin, Cape pangolin or scaly anteater, is the only pangolin found in southern and eastern Africa. As a group, pangolins are among the most critically endangered and illegally trafficked animals in the world. Image by zambezi via Depositphotos
The purported discovery of the electric pangolin in the Mojave Desert represents one of the most intriguing and controversial zoological developments in recent years. While significant questions remain regarding its origins, evolutionary history, and the mechanisms behind its unique electrical capabilities, the preliminary evidence has opened fascinating new avenues for research in fields ranging from evolutionary biology to biomimetic engineering. As scientists continue their careful investigation of this extraordinary creature, we are reminded of nature’s boundless capacity to surprise even our most fundamental assumptions about biological possibilities. Whether the electric pangolin ultimately proves to be a remarkable case of convergent evolution, an introduced species that has developed novel adaptations, or something else entirely, its study promises to expand our understanding of life’s adaptability in unexpected and illuminating ways.
Esther is from India; the heartbeat of South Asia, holding a Master’s degree in Zoology and a postgraduate diploma in Animal Welfare. Her enthusiasm for animal welfare drives her passion and dedication to work for animals, ensuring their well-being and advocating for their rights. With a solid academic background and hands-on experience, she is committed to making a positive impact in the field of animal welfare.In her free time, she enjoys embroidery and sewing. As a Chennaite from Tamil Nadu, Esther loves Bharathanatyam, an Indian classical dance form.
In today's video, we dive into my expeditions in the Olmec world of Central & Southern Mexico. I saw a ton of megalithic Olmec statues & monuments that most people have never seen. There is so much more than just the Colossal Heads...
