UC Irvine Anteater Mascot: The Story of Peter the Anteater

The UC Irvine Anteater mascot, affectionately known as Peter the Anteater, stands as one of the most unique and quirky mascots in NCAA Division I athletics. With its long snout, sticky tongue, and signature “Zot! Zot! Zot!” battle cry, Peter perfectly captures the innovative, unconventional spirit of the University of California, Irvine.

Unlike traditional fierce mascots, the Anteater represents creativity, individuality, and a tongue-in-cheek sense of humor that has made it a fan favorite nationwide.

How UC Irvine Got the Anteater Mascot

The story of the UC Irvine Anteaters began in 1965, shortly before the campus officially opened. Two water polo players, Pat Glasgow and Bob Ernst, along with fellow student Schuyler Hadley Bassett III, grew frustrated with conventional mascot suggestions like Eagles, Unicorns, Seahawks, and Golden Bison.

Inspired by the anteater character in Johnny Hart’s popular comic strip “B.C.” — known for its long tongue and the onomatopoeic sound “Zot!” when catching ants — they launched a clever campaign. Students voted on November 30, 1965, and the Anteater won decisively with 559 votes (56%), beating “None of these” and other options.

Despite initial resistance from some administrators who found it “undignified,” student support prevailed. The Anteater has been UC Irvine’s official mascot ever since.

Meet Peter the Anteater

The costumed mascot is named Peter the Anteater. Over the decades, Peter has evolved in appearance but remains true to the original comic inspiration: a friendly, humpbacked, long-nosed creature in UCI blue and gold.

Peter entertains crowds at basketball games at the Bren Events Center, soccer matches, and campus events. Fans love his energetic performances and the iconic “Rip ‘Em ‘Eaters” hand gesture.

The famous chant “Zot! Zot! Zot!” echoes through arenas whenever the Anteaters score or make a big play. It has even inspired campus traditions like “Zotmail” (email system) and “Zot ‘n Go” stores.

Why the Anteater Fits UC Irvine

The mascot choice was more than a joke — it reflected the young university’s desire to stand out and reject convention. Anteaters are unique animals with no natural predators in their ecosystem, symbolizing independence and resilience.

Peter has earned national recognition:

  • Winner of Mashable’s Mascot Madness tournament (2015)

  • Ranked among the most lovable college mascots by Reader’s Digest

  • Frequently listed among the quirkiest and best college mascots in America

The UC Irvine Anteaters compete in the Big West Conference with strong programs in basketball, soccer, volleyball, and water polo.

Fun Facts About the UC Irvine Anteater Mascot

  • Peter appears as bronze sculptures around campus, including near the Student Center and Bren Events Center.

  • The fight song is simply “Anteaters, Go!”

  • Real anteaters use their incredibly long, sticky tongues to eat up to 30,000 ants and termites a day — inspiring the “Zot!” sound.

  • The mascot has versions ranging from the classic comic-style Peter to modern costumed performances.

A Mascot Like No Other

In a sea of generic mascots, Peter the Anteater continues to win hearts with humor, originality, and school pride. For current students, alumni, and fans, cheering “Zot! Zot! Zot!” is more than a chant — it’s a celebration of UC Irvine’s unique identity.

Whether you’re a prospective Anteater, attending a game, or just love quirky college traditions, Peter the Anteater remains an unforgettable symbol of UCI.