PREVIEW

**VIDEO AVAILABLE. CONTACT INFO@COVERMG.COM TO RECEIVE.**

WORDS BYLINE: Hayley Chamberlain

This is the adorable moment a giant anteater treated himself to a luxurious bubble bath.

25-year-old Jerry was captured happily soaking in the suds while using his long, powerful claws to groom his thick coat.

The pampered anteater can be seen making sure he gets a thorough wash as he relaxes among the bubbles.

He also enjoys standing beneath the gentle spray of a water hose, allowing him to rinse his coat and keep comfortable in the Hawaiian heat.

Footage of Jerry's unusual bathing routine has racked up 1.4 million views since it was shared online on July 31.

The clip was filmed at Panaʻewa Rainforest Zoo in Hilo, Hawaii, US, where Jerry is given a variety of enrichment experiences to keep him active and stimulated.

Novel experiences such as bubbles, different scents and textures are used to encourage natural curiosity and exploration.

They can also help keep animals mentally and physically stimulated by giving them new things to investigate and interact with.

The bubbles used during Jerry's bath are non-toxic and animal-safe, meaning he can safely splash around and groom himself among the suds.

His relaxing spa session has proved a huge hit with viewers, picking up more than 42,100 likes and 1,200 comments.

One person said: "This is the first time I've ever seen a giant anteater taking a bubble bath!"

Another added: "This has to be the cutest thing I've seen today!"

Giant anteaters are equipped with large, powerful front claws which they use in the wild to tear open ant and termite nests.

But Jerry appeared equally happy putting his impressive claws to use during his pampering session as he worked the bubbles through his coat.

Keepers say enrichment is an important part of providing excellent animal care.

It encourages animals to display natural behaviours while keeping them active, curious and engaged with their surroundings.