Anteater

“Anteater” is a general term used for several insect-eating mammals native to Central and South America, including giant anteaters, tamanduas, and silky anteaters. Sizes vary widely, from small tree-dwelling species weighing under a pound to giant anteaters weighing more than 100 pounds. Most anteaters have long snouts, sticky tongues, strong claws, and specialized diets based on ants, termites, and other insects. Colors range from tan and golden to gray, brown, black, and white depending on species. Anteaters have been present in U.S. zoos since the late 1800s and early 1900s, with some species later appearing in educational and specialized exotic animal facilities.