We are starting the week off with an animal that everyone knows and loves, the Aardvark. Of course this wonderful animal is also known as the Antbear or more commonly, the Anteater. The Aardvark is endemic to Africa, south of the Sahara Desert. Although they share similar qualities with the South American Anteater, they are not related. This ant eating animal gets their name from South Africa’s Afrikaans language and means “Earth Pig”, which makes a lot of sense when you look at the physical traits of the Aardvark.

Many Animals All Rolled Into One

The long snout and stalky body resemble that of a pig but the Aardvark also has the ears of a rabbit and the tail of the kangaroo; however, they are not related to any of these animals. Similarly, they also have powerful feet and claws that look similar to a spade. Believe it or not, they not related to shovels or spades, either.  No matter who they are related to, there is no questioning that the Aardvark is one interesting creature.

The Termite Vacuum Cleaner

Since the Aardvark tend to live in a hot, African environment, they are usually nocturnal, only coming out when the temperature is cooler. Once the sun goes down the Aardvark leaves their hiding place and puts those powerful spade-feet to good use. If you are a termite in this area then you had better on the lookout since the Aardvark is a termite eating machine. The Antbear has no issues with travelling miles every night in search of tasting termite mounds. When the Antbear finds a nice looking mound, they will break through the hard casing with their powerful claws and begin using their long snout to suck of the yummy termites. They are capable of closing off their nostrils to prevent the insects and dust from entering. Similarly, their skin is so thick that they are able to easily withstand the defensive termite bites. The poor insects don’t stand a chance.

One Confused Tooth Fairy

Unlike other mammals, the Aardvark has fewer teeth, which are generally columnar in shape, have no roots and do not grow at the same time. I am guessing their dental bill would be expensive since they would definitely need a dental specialist to clean those bizarre teeth.

That does it for today’s Wild Fact on the Aardvark. Enjoy the rest of your day and I will see you tomorrow.