Recognized by it's skunk like large bushy tail, distinctive strip on their sides, and large claws, giant anteaters are one of the largest of modern anteaters known. Preferring a terrestrial lifestyle over other anteaters being arboreal, giant anteaters are around 5 to 6 feet long and can weigh from 60 to 110 pounds. Normally shy and peaceful, giant anteaters will defend themselves with surprising strength and ferocity.