One Large Claw

Factual Questions
1

Recently a friend asked me what animal is it that has one massive claw, with which it digs out grubs?/termites? We both think it’s of the bear family, but could be a primate … and I know I’ve seen it on television.

I’ve Googled-o-rama “one large claw” and variations thereof, to no avail. Then it occurred to me, surely Straight Dope can afford me an answer.

Anyone out there know what I’m referencing?

Cheers ~ thanks in advance for any replies.

(feel free to email me if you want not to post here)

2

I’m pretty sure you’re thinking of a type of lemur called the Aye-Aye.

3

Oh. My. I think you may be correct!

Yay for Straight Dope!

(but withholding informing said friend until I’m entirely sure)

I thank you mightily, Magetout.

4

The official word is in. You Are Correct!

I’m envisioning you running down a busy street, tearing off your shirt to reveal special logo’d spandex whilst proclaiming “I’m a hero!”

Carry on!

5

And in one of those bizarre example of convergent evolution there is also a species of possum with one elongated claw that it uses to dig grubs out of wood.

http://rainforest-australia.com/striped_possum.htm

6

Nit-pick: It’s an elongated finger, not a claw.