Giant Anteater

Scientific Name: Myrmecophaga tridactyla

This species is, like its name suggests, the largest of the living anteaters in the world. Their sticky tongues can measure up to 20 inches long. Learn more about giant anteaters.

  • Size: 3.2 to 3.9 feet, tail length 2 to 3 feet
  • Weight: 40 to 86 pounds
  • Diet: Primarily ants and termites, and soft-bodied grubs
  • Habitat: Tropical moist forests, dry forests, savanna habitats and open grasslands
  • Range in the Wild: Central and South America

Conservation Status

Listed as Vulnerable - major threat is habitat loss.

Revised 4/29/26

Giant Anteater Image

Image: Potawatomi Zoo