Common Name:
Giant anteater, ant bear
Scientific Name:
Myrmecophaga tridactyla
Wild Status:
Vulnerable
Habitat:
wetlands, grasslands, tropical forests
Country:
Honduras in Central America to Argentina in South America
Shelter:
tree bases, hollow logs
Life Span:
14-16 yrs
Size:
Length: 6-7 ft
Cool Facts:
- The Giant anteater is the largest of anteater species.
- Although they are called anteaters, they also eat termites using their long sticky tongue! Occasionally they eat other insects and fruit.
- Unlike other anteaters, the Giant anteater does not climb. Instead, they use they large claws and powerful arms to dig.
- Babies are carried on their mother's back for up to a year.
Details:
Taxonomic Breakdown:
Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Mammalia Order: Pilosa Family: Myrmecophagidae Genus: Myrmecophaga Species: M. tridactyla
Conservation & Helping:
For Teachers and Educators
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