Anteaters: The Insect-Eating Mammals of Central and South America

An anteater is a mammal that eats ants and other insects. There are several species of anteaters found in Central and South America, as well as in some parts of North America.

Anteaters have long, sticky tongues that they use to lap up ants and other insects. They do not have teeth or jaws, so they cannot chew their food like other animals. Instead, they swallow their prey whole, using their powerful stomach acids to digest it.

Some common species of anteaters include the giant anteater, the tamandua, and the silky anteater. These animals are known for their unique appearance and their ability to eat large amounts of insects. They are also important members of their ecosystems, helping to control the populations of ants and other insects that can be pests to humans and other animals.