Anteaters and other animals, such as armadillos that are found in areas of the United States infested with imported fire ants, burrow into ant colonies, harvest some brood (eggs, larvae, and pupae), and eat some worker ants. However, their interest is not in eliminating a colony but in returning later for more food. Because they would probably not eat the queen(s), the colony will recover. Maintaining anteaters might require supplemental feeding when ant nest numbers are low or when colonies nest below the surface, such as during hot, dry periods. These animals also make unsightly holes in lawns. Armadillos are considered pests themselves. See FAQ 1058: "How do I stop armadillos from digging up my lawn?" and other information in eXtension's Wildlife Damage Resource Area eXtension's Wildlife Damage Management Resource Area.
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