As with other pangolins, the long-tailed pangolin is covered with overlapping scales, in this case a dark brown color with a brighter rim, which serves as camouflage.
As with other pangolins, the long-tailed pangolin is covered with nine to thirteen rows of overlapping, artichoke leave-shaped keratinous scales. The scales are dark brown color with a brighter rim, which serves as camouflage.