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aardvark
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Aardvark Illustration of an aardvark, also known as an antbear (Orycteropus afer), showing its large ears, long snout, and sturdy body, with a scale bar indicating size. Aardvark cub
See Varkie the aardvark released at Naankuse Wildlife Sanctuary, Namibia
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Aardvark
aardvark summary
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Aardvark
Aardvark Aardvark (Orycteropus afer).

aardvark

mammal
Also known as: African ant bear, Orycteropus afer, ant bear, antbear(Show More)
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Britannica Editors
Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree....
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History

aardvark, (Orycteropus afer), stocky African mammal found south of the Sahara Desert in savanna and semiarid areas. The name aardvarkā€”Afrikaans for ā€œearth pigā€ā€”refers to its piglike face and burrowing habits. The aardvark weighs up to 65 kg (145 pounds) and measures up to 2.2 metres (7.2 feet) long, including the heavy, 70-cm (28-inch) tail. The face is narrow with an elongated snout, very reduced eyes, and ears up to 24 cm (9.5 inches) long. The...

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