MammalsConservation priority

Oso Hormiguero Chico

Tamandua tetradactyla

The tamandua or southern tamandua is one of the world's most ancient placental mammals, with origins dating back twelve million years. In Uruguay, although it had been theoretically known as part of the country's native fauna since the early twentieth century, it was not seen in the wild until recent times. Today it mainly inhabits the native forests of north-eastern Uruguay, especially in Cerro Largo, Rivera, Tacuarembó and Artigas.

Key Features

Habitat

Subtropical native forests, humid and dry woodlands, near streams and rivers. It favours areas with abundant climbing plants and epiphytes, where it finds its prey.

Taxonomic classification

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Mammalia

Family: Myrmecophagidae

Genus: Tamandua

Technical conservation data

SNAP conservation priority: Yes

Threatened by forestry: Yes

Where to Find It

This species has been recorded in the following biodiversity reserves:

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