Category: Mammals
Type: Xenarthra

Northern Tamandua

These anteaters are a lot smaller than their giant counterparts, and the largest found was just 7kg. They have a long tongue that can grow to 41cm (16”) which they use to collect termites and ants. They have strong forelimbs and sharp claws on their front legs with they use to defend themselves, as well as to rip in to termite nests. They have a long, naked, prehensile tail which they use to grip on to branches as they are moving through the trees, foraging for food, and protecting themselves from predators.

Species:
Taxonomy: (Tamandua mexicana)
Spanish Name: Oso hormiguero; oso mielero; oso colmenero; tamandua
Other Common Names: Lesser anteater, collared anteater
Story: