Aardvark
Aardvark
Aardvark (/ˈɑːrd.vɑːrk/; Orycteropus afer) is a medium-sized, burrowing, nocturnal mammal native to Africa. It is the only living species of the order Tubulidentata, although other prehistoric species and genera are known.
Etymology
The name "aardvark" is derived from the Afrikaans/Dutch words "aarde" (earth) and "vark" (pig), hence "earth pig". The name was first recorded in South Africa in 1782.
Description
Aardvarks are characterized by their long snouts that they use for sniffing out food and digging, and their large ears used for hearing insects. They have a keen sense of smell and are strong swimmers.
Diet
Aardvarks are specialized for eating ants and termites. They have a long, sticky tongue that they use to capture their prey.
Habitat
Aardvarks are found throughout sub-Saharan Africa, where suitable habitat (savannahs, grasslands, woodlands and bushland) and food (i.e., ants and termites) is available.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Aardvark
- Wikipedia's article - Aardvark
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