KEEPERS at Colchester Zoo were delighted to see one of their newest arrivals out and about with its mother this week - a baby giant anteater.
Roddy Ashworth
KEEPERS at Colchester Zoo were delighted to see one of their newest arrivals out and about with its mother last week - a baby giant anteater.
The animal was born several weeks ago but has barely been seen by staff as it has been spending most of its time hidden by its mother Furai in its nest.
The new addition joins three other giant anteaters at Colchester Zoo - parents Furai and Gilberto and their first offspring, Silva, who was born last year.
According to keepers, Furai and Gilberto are “excellent” parents, and the new baby can often be seen riding around on the base of Furai's tail.
Keepers have been keeping a close eye on the baby and report that it is strong and healthy.
Giant anteaters are classed as 'near threatened' in the wild.
They can be found in several parts of South America, but are at risk from agricultural encroachment into their habitat and from forest fires.
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