Anteaters and Relatives - Order Xenarthra
Anteaters and their relatives (Order Xenarthra) form a group of mammals that includes anteaters, sloths, and armadillos. Xenarthrans inhabit areas of South America and the southern parts of North America. They are primarily insectivores, herbivores, and frugivores.
Giant Anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla)
The Giant Anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) grows to lengths of 1m-2m (3.3ft-6.6ft) and reaches weights in the range of 22kg-39kg (48.5lb-86lb). Long straw-like brown-black fur covers its body which grows to lengths of up to 40cm (15.7in) on its bushy tail.
The Giant Anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) grows to lengths of 1m-2m (3.3ft-6.6ft) and reaches weights in the range of 22kg-39kg (48.5lb-86lb). Long straw-like brown-black fur covers its body which grows to lengths of up to 40cm (15.7in) on its bushy tail.
Nine-Banded Armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus)
The nine-banded armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus) is an intriguing creature with bony armor and leathery skin covering its body. Eight to ten bony bands encircle its midriff, enabling it a certain amount of flexibility.
The nine-banded armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus) is an intriguing creature with bony armor and leathery skin covering its body. Eight to ten bony bands encircle its midriff, enabling it a certain amount of flexibility.
Southern Tamandua (Tamandua tetradactyla)
The southern tamandua (Tamandua tetradactyla) has an elongated snout and is covered by creamy yellow-brown fur. Tamaduas in the southeastern part of their range have a black patch resembling a vest that curves around the mammal's front limbs, over its shoulders and onto its back and sides.
The southern tamandua (Tamandua tetradactyla) has an elongated snout and is covered by creamy yellow-brown fur. Tamaduas in the southeastern part of their range have a black patch resembling a vest that curves around the mammal's front limbs, over its shoulders and onto its back and sides.
What Are Xenarthrans?
Xenarthrans (the common name for members of the Order Xenarthra) form a group of mammals that include creatures such as armadillos, sloths, and anteaters.
Xenarthrans (the common name for members of the Order Xenarthra) form a group of mammals that include creatures such as armadillos, sloths, and anteaters.