Collier's New Encyclopedia (1921)/Aard-vark

For works with similar titles, see Aard-vark.

AARD-VARK, the orycteropus capensis, an insectivorous animal which partakes of the nature both of the ant-eater and the armadillo; agreeing with the former in its general habits, but, although entirely destitute of scaly armor, more resembling the latter as to its anatomical structure. The aard-vark measures about 5 feet to the end of the tail: its skin is thick, coarse, and covered with stiff hair; the limbs short, thick, and very muscular. This animal is very common in Cape Colony.