Insectivore
An insectivore is an animal that primarily feeds on insects and other small invertebrates. These species are found across nearly every habitat on Earth, from dense rainforests to arid deserts, playing a vital role in controlling insect populations and maintaining ecosystem balance.
Insectivores have evolved a range of specialized adaptations to help them capture, consume, and digest their tiny prey. Many have sharp claws for digging, sticky tongues for catching insects, or sensitive hearing to detect movement. Some species, like bats and aardvarks, even have elongated snouts and strong forelimbs to uncover hidden insects.
Common insectivorous animals include hedgehogs, armadillos, frogs, geckos, and shrews, as well as many birds such as swallows, woodpeckers, and nightjars. Among insects themselves, species like praying mantises and antlions are also insectivores, feeding on smaller invertebrates.
Despite their small prey, insectivores play an enormous ecological role. Many act as natural pest controllers, keeping insect populations in check and preventing outbreaks. Some, like anteaters and pangolins, rely exclusively on insects, while others, like foxes and raccoons, incorporate insects into a more varied diet.