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Animal Guide

Aardvark

17 destinations · 13 states

Native Range
Sub-Saharan Africa

Aardvarks are easy to underestimate until you see one moving around a habitat. Their long ears swivel toward sounds, the pig-like snout constantly investigates the ground, and a powerful tail trails behind as they wander in search of food. At a zoo or wildlife destination, the best moments often come when an aardvark is actively foraging. It can use its sharp claws to tear into termite mounds, then extend a long, sticky tongue to collect insects. Those claws are strong enough for digging burrows, where aardvarks spend much of the day resting and escaping the heat. They are mainly active at night, so daytime visitors may find one sleeping, but some facilities offer evening viewing that reveals much more activity. Despite their unusual appearance, aardvarks are not closely related to pigs or anteaters. They have a distinctive place among African mammals, adapted for digging and feeding on ants and termites. Watch the snout and ears closely and the animal's specialized lifestyle quickly becomes apparent.

Aardvark

Where to see Aardvark

17 destinations across 13 states

17 destinations

Audubon Zoo

New Orleans, LA

Bronx Zoo

Bronx, NY

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

Cincinnati, OH

Columbus Zoo & Aquarium

Powell, OH

Detroit Zoo

Royal Oak, MI

Disney's Animal Kingdom

Lake Buena Vista, FL

Henry Vilas Zoo

Madison, WI

Honolulu Zoo

Honolulu, HI

Jacksonville Zoo & Botanical Gardens

Jacksonville, FL

Kansas City Zoo & Aquarium

Kansas City, MO

Lincoln Park Zoo

Chicago, IL

Memphis Zoo

Memphis, TN

Nashville Zoo at Grassmere

Nashville, TN

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium

Omaha, NE

Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium

Tacoma, WA

San Diego Zoo

San Diego, CA

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

Escondido, CA

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