Identity theft: anti‐predator mimicry by the giant anteater?

The giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) ranges widely in northern South America and southern Central America, where its main predators are jaguars (Panthera onca) pumas (Puma concolor). species’ bold color pattern has been attributed to predator avoidance through both aposematism disruptive camouflage. Its powerful front claws can be used not only for ripping open ant termite nests but also as a lethal defense against attacking (and humans!); this led the suggestion that conspicuous black “bracelets” on forelimbs could an aposematic warning signal potential (Philos T R Soc B 2009; doi.org/10.1098/rstb.2008.0221). After photographing unaccompanied pair of anteaters Brazilian Pantanal September 2022, we suggest another function their distinctive coloration – mimicry. forelimb create panda-like with nose, eyepatch, ear. paleness anteater's near extends up back toward rump, creating visual impression upper body animal. pale inner side far makes it appear forelimb, adding illusion separate, smaller resulting strongly suggests bear (Ursidae) example Batesian mimicry, propose more novel form As knuckle-walker, M tridactyla moves relatively slowly; this, when coupled small head, long snout, absence teeth, especially vulnerable large predator. Procyonids (eg raccoons [Procyon spp] coatis [Nasua spp]) than common throughout current range; notably, some procyonid species have dark noses, eyepatches, ears, larger felids regularly prey upon them. By projecting likeness species, might lure attacker less part body, which then allow respond formidable claws. Or just seeing things?