Spot's Bizarre Fall Animal
Fall 2015: Giant Anteater - Central and South America
The giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla), also known as the ant bear, is native to Central and South America. It is one of four living species of anteaters and classified with sloths. The giant anteater is the largest of its family at 5.97–7.12 ft in length, and can weigh anywhere from 60–95 lbs depending on sex. The giant anteater is recognizable by its elongated snout, bushy tail, long fore claws, and distinctively colored pelage.
The giant anteater forages in open areas and rests in more forested habitats. It feeds primarily on ants and termites by using its fore claws to dig them up and its long, sticky tongue to collect them. Giant anteaters are mostly solitary except during mother-offspring relationships, aggressive interactions between males, and when mating. Mother anteaters carry their offspring on their backs until weaning them.
The giant anteater is listed as vulnerable. Threats to its survival include habitat destruction, fire, and poaching for fur and meat. Check out the website below on how to help protect them.
For More Information about Giant Anteaters and how to help protect them, Check-out:
http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/giant-anteater/
http://www.worldlandtrust.org/education/species/giant-anteater