Tulsa Zoo is thrilled to announce the groundbreaking of the Clayton and Gina Hughes Family Giant Anteater Habitat, marking the first time the zoo will house this remarkable species.
Set to open in Fall 2025, this new habitat will be adjacent to the Rainforest and will provide a dynamic and enriching space for giant anteaters. Designed with both animal welfare and guest experience in mind, the exhibit will include the following:
- Indoor and outdoor spaces to accommodate the anteaters year-round
- A wading pool for bathing and cooling off
- Natural substrate for digging and foraging, encouraging natural behaviors
“As we approach the start of our centennial celebration in 2027, we are more excited than ever to continue building facilities that allow our expert animal care staff to provide the highest standard of care,” said Tulsa Zoo President and CEO Lindsay Hutchison. “This new habitat is designed to meet the complex physical and behavioral needs of giant anteaters while offering guests a unique opportunity to experience giant anteaters in a naturalistic setting.”
The Clayton and Gina Hughes Family Giant Anteater Habitat is made possible by the generosity of the Clayton and Gina Hughes Family, as well as by proceeds from the 55th annual Oklahoma Central Credit Union ZooRun presented by CommunityCare.
Giant anteaters are classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, due to habitat degradation throughout their range in Central and South America. There are close to 100 animals in about 50 of the Association of Zoos and Aquarium accredited facilities. Tulsa Zoo is working closely with the AZA Species Survival Plan® to determine which individuals will join the zoo.
