A Rare Encounter with the Silky Anteater
Weighing less than a mango and known for its shy nature, the petite silky anteater is one of the smallest mammals on the planet. This tiny creature, which bears a striking resemblance to Edward Scissorhands, recently made an appearance in the remote jungles of Suriname, offering a rare glimpse into its world.
The animal was seen walking on two legs with its arms outstretched, almost appearing to smile as it moved through its natural habitat. These remarkable images were captured by tour guide Leon Pansa, who was leading a group through the rainforest near Powakka, a small village in South America.
Leon, a 32-year-old native of Suriname, shared his experience of taking these shots during a tour where he showed visitors how to navigate and survive off the grid. He described the moment as one filled with ‘excitement and gratitude’ when he managed to capture the image of the tiny animal, which measures between 36 to 45cm in length.
‘The animal is a silky anteater, also known as the pygmy anteater,’ he explained. ‘It can be found across Central and South America. They are nocturnal and fully arboreal animals, with highly adapted hind feet for climbing.’
Leon noted that although these creatures live in the region, they are quite rare to spot. ‘This was actually the first time I had ever seen one in the wild,’ he said. ‘In these images, the anteater is carefully moving through the trees, likely foraging for insects or navigating between branches.’
He added that their slow, deliberate movement is typical behavior, as they rely on stealth and camouflage rather than speed. However, seeing this so clearly and at eye level is very uncommon. Leon attributed his success to a combination of experience, timing, and a bit of luck.
‘I spotted the animal during the tour, and because it was moving slowly and the lighting conditions were just right, I could take detailed photos using my camera,’ he explained.
Leon described the encounter as ‘incredibly special.’ ‘In that moment I felt a real sense of excitement and gratitude – this is not only something rare, but also a reminder that this is truly my work and passion.’ His dedication to showcasing the beauty and diversity of Suriname’s wildlife continues to inspire those who visit the region.
