GIANT ANTEATERS ARE AMONG THE TOP SPECIES KILLED ON ROADS

The grasslands and forests of Brazil’s Cerrado biome support some of the largest remaining populations of Giant anteaters. But today the Cerrado is undergoing rapid agricultural development and is fragmented by an ever-increasing network of roads. Shockingly, Giant anteaters are among the animals most frequently killed on these roads, and road mortalities now pose a serious threat to species’ long-term survival.

ADDRESSING THE THREAT

To address the threat, data on why, when, and how anteaters interact with roadways is urgently needed. Whitley-Award winning scientist Dr. Arnaud Desbiez and his team of field researchers have therefore initiated a  four-year effort — the Anteaters and Highways project — to assess the impact of roads on Giant anteater populations in the Brazilian Cerrado.  Research results will provide insight into anteater movement patterns, inform road management strategies in Brazil, and help save an iconic New World species.

MAJOR FUNDING

A multi-year grant from Fondation Segré covers most of Anteaters & Highways’ core expenses.  In addition, the project collaborates and receives support from other key institutions. See more of our supporters and see how you can join them.

A PROVEN TEAM

Dr. Desbiez, Conservation Project Manager for the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland, and his team of Brazilian field researchers have already pioneered Giant armadillo research in Brazil.  Now, this group of award-winning conservationists brings the same scientific rigor and tenacity to Giant anteater conservation.