Silky or pygmy anteater

Berbice, Guyana

1875.1.e

The pygmy anteater is the smallest anteater in the world.

Where and how they live: In the rainforests of Central and South America. They spend their lives up in the tree tops, either curled up sleeping during the day or hunting for food at night.

What they eat: They have prehensile (gripping) tails and long claws for climbing and tearing open ant and termite nests. Their long tongues are covered with tiny hooks and thick mucus (spit); perfect for gathering up small insects.

Are they endangered? This species copes quite well with habitat change and is not currently of conservation concern.

Linked objects:

Southern tamandu