Proboscis

What is a Proboscis?

A proboscis is a long, tube-like part that comes from the head of some animals. It helps them get food or sense their surroundings. Animals with proboscises can be insects, like butterflies, or bigger animals, like elephants.

Animals That Use a Proboscis

Small Animals

Some small animals, like moths and mosquitoes, have a proboscis. Butterflies use theirs to drink sweet nectar from flowers. Mosquitoes use theirs to drink blood from animals, but only female mosquitoes do this.

Big Animals

Big animals can have proboscises too! The elephant’s trunk is a proboscis. It helps the elephant grab food, drink water, and even greet friends. The proboscis monkey has a very big nose that looks like a proboscis too!

Fun Fact

The word “proboscis” comes from Ancient Greek. It means “to feed or nourish.” So, a proboscis helps animals get the food they need to grow and stay healthy.