The aardvark, Orycteropus afer, is a nocturnal mammal native to sub-Saharan Africa. It has a pig-like snout, large ears, and a robust body covered with coarse hair. Known for its powerful claws, the aardvark digs for ants and termites, playing a crucial role in controlling insect populations.

Orycteropus afer, commonly known as the aardvark, is native to sub-Saharan Africa. Its geographical distribution spans across various countries, including South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Kenya, and Ethiopia, with its range extending from southern to eastern and central Africa.

Aardvarks inhabit a variety of environments, primarily favoring savanna and grassland regions. They are also found in woodlands and open areas with sandy soils, which facilitate their burrowing behavior. These regions are characterized by warm climates with both wet and dry seasons.

Aardvarks are nocturnal, burrowing mammals that play a crucial ecological role as insectivores, primarily feeding on ants and termites. They contribute to soil aeration through their digging activities and provide shelter for other animals through their abandoned burrows. Aardvarks are adapted to a solitary lifestyle, with a keen sense of smell and strong limbs for digging.