Observed Behavior
When aggravated, tamanduas communicate by hissing and releasing an unpleasant scent from their anal gland. If threatened while residing in the trees, it grasps a branch with its hind feet and tail, leaving its arms and long, curved claws free for combat. If on the ground, it backs up against a rock or tree and wrestles the opponent with its powerful forearms.
Tamanduas have small eyes and poor vision. Instead, they rely more on their sense of smell and hearing. Tamanduas are able to extract their prey by using their extremely strong forearms to rip open nests. They lick up insects with their elongated snouts and rounded tongues, which can reach up to 40 centimetres (16 in) in length.
These animals, though widespread, are uncommon. Claiming that they kill their dogs, tamanduas are often killed by hunters. They are also hunted for the thick tendons in their tails, which are used to make rope. Tamanduas are sometimes used by Amazonian Indians to rid their homes of ants and termites.
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