Although they are shy and typically attempt to avoid humans, giant anteaters can inflict severe wounds with their front claws and have been known to seriously injure or kill humans who corner and threaten them.

Are anteaters aggressive to humans?

Anteaters are not aggressive to humans, but they can defend them- selves by assuming an upright position and using their powerful forelimb claws, which are normally used to dig out anthills and termite nests when seeking food.

Has anyone been killed by an anteater?

Human Death Caused by a Giant Anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) in Brazil. The fatal outcome of a defensive attack by a giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) is reported. The attack occurred while the victim was hunting, and his dogs cornered the adult anteater, which assumed an erect, threatening position.