Southern Tamandua

Several times this little fellow came across my path: the Southern Tamandua.

The Southern Tamandua is also known as the Southern Anteater or Lesser Anteater (Tamandua tetradactyla). A small anteater with a length of 54 - 88 cm, length of tail: 40 - 59 cm. And with a weight of 4 - 9 kg. Not kind of an impressive appearance but still one that you don't want to miss.

Several times I have seen the Southern Tamandua crossing the airstrip of Kabalebo in broad day light, but it is also known that they like to travel during the night.

Southern Tamandua's are also one of the many solitary travelers of the rainforest.

They also feel right at home in trees, usually when they are looking for termites -, ants - or bee nests. With their powerful and sharp claws they tear open the nest and with their sticky tongue the anteaters enjoy the delicacy.

As you can see in the picture above, this anteater was fully covered with dozens of termites after destroying their nest in the tree.

When the Southern Tamandua feels threatened it will stand up straight and won't hesitate to use its razor sharp claws in defense. So whenever you see this little guy standing like this, don't think that it wants to give you a hug.