Red Silky Anteater

Cyclopes rufus

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Mammalia · Pilosa · Cyclopedidae

About

The silky anteater, also known as the pygmy anteater, has traditionally been considered a single species of anteater, Cyclopes didactylus, in the genus Cyclopes, the only living genus in the family Cyclopedidae. Found in southern Mexico, and Central and South America, it is the smallest of all known anteaters. It has nocturnal habits and appears to be completely arboreal; its hind feet are highly modified for climbing.

Fun Fact

Found in southern Mexico, and Central and South America, it is the smallest of all known anteaters.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Found in the northern Atlantic Forest of eastern Brazil.

Diet

Feeds mainly on ants, eating between 700 and 5,000 a day.

Lifespan

To be updated

Threats

Habitat Change
Human Disturbance

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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