The Southern Tamandua, with its distinctive black vest-like markings, has become a quiet favorite at the "Bird House" in East Garden Ueno Zoo, thanks to its appearance and unique movements.


Ueno Zoo has had two breeding attempts in the past, but the mother, "Ai," died in 2015, leaving the father, "Coco," without an opportunity to breed.

Coco is the oldest tamandua in Japan, but she is still youthful and active, spending her days energetically. With high hopes for Coco, a long-awaited bride has arrived from Kochi Prefectural Noichi Zoological Park. Her name is "Natsu," and she was born in August 2013. She has the distinctive black vest pattern of the Southern Tamandua and beautiful fur.

The number of Southern Tamanduas kept in zoos in Japan has been declining, and in 2015, they were registered as a species by Japanese Association of Zoos and Aquariums of Zoos and Aquariums (a species for which conservation efforts are actively undertaken). Planned transfers for breeding purposes have been implemented, and Natsu's arrival at the zoo has been decided.

For about a month after arriving at the zoo in September 2016, Natsu gradually got used to her environment in the non-exhibition enclosure and in the enclosure next to Coco's. Then, in late October, she began living with Coco. The first time they lived together, Coco approached Natsu to check her scent, which caused Natsu to threaten her, resulting in a scuffle.

Even after living together for a while, they still end up fighting each other out of nowhere. Their fur is the color of a wrestling uniform, which makes the sight quite comical, but it makes us animal keeper very worried.


Because arboreal anteaters have very sharp claws, there is a risk of injury. Sometimes, the situation becomes uncontrollable and they have to be forcibly separated, but recently, they have been spending more time together peacefully, such as eating together. We hope they can continue to get along well in preparation for breeding.

If you happen to encounter them while they're together, you might witness a "battle" between the two. It's a cute little fight, but please observe quietly.

[Miki Ogawa, Animal Care and Exhibition Staff, Ueno Zoo East Garden]

(January 20, 2017)