Keystone Safari announces giant anteater birth. What to know

A newborn giant anteater cuddles with his mother, Helga, at Keystone Safari in Mercer County.

By USA Today Network via Reuters Connect

November 13, 2025

With a snout only a mother can love, Keystone Safari has welcomed a new addition to its animal park.

The Mercer County park near Grove City announced Nov. 12 that a baby was born Oct. 19 to their giant anteaters, Helga and Hugo. It is the first pup for the pair.

Officials said the gender was still undetermined because zookeepers wanted to give the family uninterrupted, quiet bonding time. According to the park, baby giant anteaters cling tightly to their mother’s back for nearly a year as they grow and learn to explore their surroundings.

A name for the baby will be chosen after the keepers have a chance to get to know the infant. The park will announce when the baby is available for public viewings.

A posting on Keystone Safari’s Facebook social media page said this birth is especially exciting for staff because they hand-raised Helga there. The park also welcomed a baby giraffe in August.