Monthly Archives: February 2015

Atlas Moth

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Atlas Moth  (Attacus atlas)

  • Has the largest surface area of all moths, up to 62 square inches (158 cm)
  • Wings up to 12 inches (30 cm) long
  • Lives in the tropical and subtropical forests of Southeast Asia
  • After emerging from their cocoon, they only live 1-2 weeks
  • Said to be named “Atlas” because of the map-like images on its wings
  • Conservation Status (IUCN): Vulnerable

 

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Malayan Sun Bear

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Malayan Sun Bear (Helarctos malayanus)

  • Also called the “honey bear” because of its appetite for bees and honey
  • Smallest member of the bear family, weighing up to 150 pounds (68 kg) and can be 5 feet (1.5 m) in length
  • Lives in tropical forests in Southeast Asia
  • Are usually solitary and do not hibernate
  • Predators include tigers and leopards
  • Diet includes: worms, termites, birds, reptiles and figs
  • Conservation Status (IUCN): Vulnerable

 

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Giant Anteater

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Giant Anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla)

  • Native to Central and South America
  • Can be up to 7 feet (213 cm) in length from tip of snout to end of tail
  • Can weight up to 90 pounds (41 kg)
  • Uses claws to tear open anthills
  • Has no teeth but a tongue that can be up to 24 inches (60 cm) long
  • Eats up to 30,000 insects in one day
  • Conservation Status (IUCN):  Vulnerable

 

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Capybara

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Capybara  (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris)

  • The largest rodent in the world and can weigh up to 100 pounds (45 kg)
  • Native to South America
  • Lives in groups of 10-20
  • Eats grasses and aquatic plants
  • Lifespan is about 4 years in the wild
  • Sometimes called “Water Hogs” because of their great swimming ability
  • Can remain underwater for several minutes
  • Conservation Status (IUCN): Least Concern

 

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