Aardvark

Orycteropus afer

Explore the Aardvark (Orycteropus afer) species record in The Ark Is Earth, including classification, habitat, distribution, conservation information, and sources.

Summary

The Aardvark is a nocturnal, termite-eating mammal of African savannas and grasslands, including southern Africa. Its powerful claws open insect nests, while its long sticky tongue collects prey. By consuming ants and termites and digging burrows later used by other animals, it helps shape dryland ecosystems; it is listed as Least Concern.

Classification in this archive

Animals › Chordates › Mammals › Tubulidentata › Orycteropodidae › Orycteropus

Habitat and distribution

Habitat: savanna, grassland
Regions in this record: Africa, South Africa, Namibia

Conservation field in this record

Least Concern

Demonstration note

[DEMO] Aardvarks use strong claws to open insect nests.