The Chattanooga Zoo welcomes Betsy, a giant anteater
The Chattanooga Zoo is opening its newest exhibit housing a brand new species to Chattanooga, the Giant Anteater.The new exhibit features an indoor holding and keeper area, a large spacious outdoor habitat including a pond, and multiple public viewing areas for visitors to observe these gentle giants, said officials.
In addition to expanding the zoo’s animal collection and exhibitory, the Chattanooga Zoo will expand its conservation reach to help save the giant anteater in the wild.
Housed in the new exhibit is Betsy the giant anteater. Betsy came from the Brookfield Zoo in Chicago, Il. as part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan. The SSP is a population management program overseeing certain species within AZA-accredited facilities to enhance the preservation of those species in the wild. Through the SSP, zoo officials hope to have a recommended breeding male placed with Betsy in the near future.
Betsy is an energetic 2-year-old female, who is very curious and can be a little shy at times. With weather permitting, 45 degrees or above temperatures, Betsy will have access to her outdoor exhibit full-time during normal operating hours (9 a.m.-5 p.m.) and will be viewable by the public.
Giant anteaters are insectivorous mammals. They can grow up to 7 feet from the tip of their snout to the end of their tail and can weigh up to 140 pounds. Because giant anteaters have poor eyesight and hearing, their noses are their most valuable tool. Their tubular snouts and two foot long tongues allow them to reach in tiny spaces where insects and ants may be hiding. The giant anteater is currently considered vulnerable with its population declining daily.
For more information, please contact the Chattanooga Zoo at 697-1322 x 5703 or hhammon@chattzoo.org
The Chattanooga Zoo welcomes Betsy, a giant anteater