Page 150 - Atlas Of The World's Strangest Animals

150 ATLAS OF THE WORLD’S STRANGEST ANIMALS

Southern Tamandua

When they are nestled in the canopy, like some long-snouted tree-bear, it’s hard

to believe that tamanduas are really anteaters.These curious beasts like nothing
better than licking up insects using their tapered tongue and tubelike snout. But
beware – these cute creatures have claws and know to use them, too!

Feet
The tamanduas’ feet are equipped with long, curved claws.Those
on the mammals’ hind feet are generally shorter then those on the
fore feet, but they still make effective clamps to keep these
arboreal-dwellers anchored in the tree tops.

ORDER Xenarthra / FAMILY
Key Facts Myrmecophagidae / GENUS & SPECIES
Tamandua tetradactyla

Weight 3–7kg (6.6–15.4 Ib)
Length Up to 88cm (34.6in)
Tail: 40–67cm (15.7–26.4 in)

Sexual maturity Females: 1 year
Breeding season Autumn
Number of young 1
Gestation period 130–160 days

Breeding interval Yearly
Typical diet Ants and termites
Lifespan Up to 9 years in captivity

(c) 2011 Marshall Cavendish. All Rights Reserved.