This pup was born to parents who were paired through a breeding recommendation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Southern Tamandua Species Survival Plan (SSP), designed to help maintain a healthy assurance population of this species. Tamanduas are classified as a species of Least Concern on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species, with stable populations. Tamanduas are sometimes called “stinkers of the forest,” as they may release a very unpleasant odor, similar to a skunk’s, from a gland at the base of their tail when a predator gets too close.

They use their prehensile tail for balance and support while climbing. Tamanduas are covered in thick, coarse hair that helps keep ants from reaching their skin. Their enormous front claws help tamanduas climb in trees, and are also used for defense and when digging for food. Using their specialized mouth and 16-inch-long sticky tongue, tamanduas eat up to 9,000 ants in a single day. Tamanduas feed mainly on small insects like ants and termites. They have small eyes and poor vision, but have acute senses of hearing and smell. Native to Central and South America, they are at home in trees and on the ground. Southern tamanduas are a type of anteater, and are often called lesser anteaters because they are much smaller than their relative, the giant anteater. Tamanduas are typically solitary animals, except when mating. The father, Fernando, plays no role in helping raise the pup and does not share the same habitat as mom and baby. It is great to see the pup developing, using her strong claws to cling to Cora’s back with confidence as Cora climbs about the habitat.”Ĭovered in fine, silky grayish-brown hair with a dark “V” down her back, it is estimated the pup will nurse for about five to six months, and begin trying foods like worms and a special high-protein insectivore powder mixed with water after two to three months. “Both mom and pup are doing very well-and Cora is an attentive mom, keeping her pup nestled in their den the majority of the time, but venturing outside for up to an hour some days. “We are elated to have this little pup in our care,” said Lisa Peterson, executive director, San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Wildlife care specialists report the pup is healthy, and Cora is being a very good mother-nursing, cleaning and grooming her baby, and giving her constant attention. 6, 2021) – San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is proud to announce the birth of a southern tamandua (pronounced tuh MAN deh wah) pup at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. The female pup, yet to be named, was born July 21 to first-time tamandua parents, Cora and Fernando. While you zipline you will be sitting comfortably and your stop is similar to being on a swing.SAN DIEGO (Aug. Everyone is fun, kind, cautious, and professional. After your test flight you will travel in a Safari truck through areas of the conversation park where regular guest never see. Best souvenir ever!!!) As a fledgling you will go on a fun test flight first before your 3/4 of a mile flight over the Safari animals.

(At the box office, they also offer a cool phone strap you may purchase for $10 so you can video your experience without fear of losing your phone. Next they provide a box you put your personal property in so you won’t lose it on your flight, which protects your property and the animals below. The park does a phenomenal job pre-training you for the zipline! First they set you up with your flight gear, show you a video, explain the process while answering all your questions.

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