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THE GREAT ANT-EATER.* (Myrmecophaga jubata, Linn.) 



The great ant-eater, a native of Brazil and Guiana, is about 

 four feet and a half in length from the end of the snout to the 

 root of the tail, which is somewhat more than two feet and a 

 half in length. The mouth has no teeth, but is only occupied 

 by a long vermiform tongue, capable of considerable elongation ; 

 all the feet have four nails, those of the fore-feet are large and 

 strong j and the tail is long and bushy. The fur is of a greyish 

 brown, with an oblique black band edged with white on each 

 shoulder, and forms a nearly erect mane along the back. 



It runs with a peculiar trot, and is not soon overtaken, for 

 when chased it will keep a horse at a canter, and is not easily 

 fatigued. 



White-ants (Termites) are its chief food; and having, by 

 means of its claws, pulled down the large mounds which these 

 insects construct, it thrusts its long tongue amongst them, when 

 they adhere to the saliva, and are drawn into the mouth. The 

 tongue is alternately protruded and retracted so rapidly, that 

 it is not surprising so large an animal can satiate itself with 

 such small insects. The female produces only one at a birth ; 

 and as soon as this is strong enough, it holds firmly to the back 

 of its mother, who in that position carries it about for a year. 

 If the mother be attacked she raises herself upon her haunches, 

 and with the young one still adhering to her, strikes with her 



* Sometimes improperly called ^mi-bear. 



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