11 Common Misconceptions About Anteaters (And You Probably Believed #7!)

9. Anteaters Are Nocturnal Animals

While some anteaters may be active at night, it is incorrect to classify all anteaters as nocturnal. Different anteater species have varying activity patterns, with many being crepuscular—most active during dawn and dusk. For example, the giant anteater can be active both during the day and at night, depending on factors like temperature and human activity in their habitat. Their activity patterns are often influenced by environmental conditions such as temperature, prey availability, and predator presence. In hotter climates or seasons, they may become more nocturnal, while in cooler areas, they might be more active during daylight hours. This adaptability in their activity patterns helps them avoid both natural predators and human disturbances.