Report of three non-agonistic encounters of free-living giant anteaters (Myrmecophaga tridactyla)

Abstract

The giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) is considered a solitary species except for the reproductive and parental care periods. Agonistic encounters among giant anteaters have been previously reported, describing conflicts and fights between individuals. However, non-agonistic encounters have not been reported in the scientific literature. Three instances of such encounters were recorded: two in which two females, carrying their cubs, were foraging together for periods of a few hours, and another where a female with her cub beside her was foraging alongside an adult of unknown sex. Details of these encounters are described in this note, contributing to knowledge of the natural history of the species.