Giant anteaters are highly specialised insectivores from South American grasslands and forests whose welfare depends on appropriate substrate, feeding enrichment and thermal management.
Giant anteater welfare requires diet and feeding enrichment that replicates the physical and cognitive demands of wild foraging. Termite mound-simulating feeding structures, buried food requiring excavation and puzzle feeders extend feeding time from minutes to hours. Substrate quality affects foot health in these animals that walk on their knuckles. Thermal management is essential for this tropical species in cooler zoo climates.