Belize

Belize's Xenarthrans

Xenarthrans are a group of mammals that include anteaters, sloths, and armadillos. The name xenarthran comes from two Greek words meaning “unusual joints.” Today there are about 40 species of xenarthrans. Some hang upside down from trees, others have a long snout with a very long tongue, and some dig the ground in search of insects and small invertebrates. Some will even eat dead animals! All current and extinct species have been found in specific regions of the Americas, mostly South America. Check out the species below that call Belize home. To discover the animal’s diet, lifespan, habitat and fun facts click on their image. 

Anteaters

There are three types of anteaters: giant anteaters, tamanduas and silky anteaters.

Sloths
Giant Anteater (possibly extinct)

Giant Anteater

Central American Silky Anteater

Central American silky anteater Cyclopes dorsalis

Northern Tamandua

Northern anteater - Tamandua mexicana

Sloths

Sloths play an important role in the tropical forests of the Americas.

Sloths
None!

Armadillos

Armadillos are the only mammals that have a carapace or dorsal armor made of small bony plates. Their diversity is truly astonishing.

Sloths
Northern Naked-tailed Armadillo

Northern Naked-tailed Armadillo Cabassous centralis

Nine-banded Armadillo

Nine-banded Armadillo Dasypus novemcinctus