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Giant Anteater

Myrmecophaga tridactyla

Snout and about at Longleat

We welcomed our first giant anteaters to Longleat in 2010, as part of a European Breeding Programme. In 2013, we celebrated a truly special moment when Maroni, one of our original anteaters, gave birth to a baby right in front of some very lucky visitors! It was a first for us, and a huge milestone for this vulnerable species.

Claws and effect

Although they have no teeth and a seemingly docile demeanour, giant anteaters are classified as a Category One dangerous wild animal. The same classification as lions, crocodiles and black widow spiders! This is down to their enormous front-body strength and large sharp claws, as well as their overall size, posing a high risk to human life.

Did you know?

As their name suggests, ants and other insects are the main food source of giant anteaters. They can scoop up more than 35,000 per day and graze huge distances each day to find them.

VIP Giant Anteater Experiences

One in a lifetime up close opportunities with our giant anteaters

Giant anteaters can be found in the Walking Safari

Put your shoes on, it’s time to meet furry, scaly and feathery friends on foot. From snoozing koalas to snapping crocodiles, see how many animals you can spot.

Find out more