File:Aardwolf standing near rock - DPLA - b96f1db06a6983e06748bcc0cb656cb7.jpg

35 mm slide; color. Scientific Classification: Kingdom: Animalia; Phylum: Chordata; Class: Mammalia; Order: Carnivora; Family: Hyaenidae; Genus: Proteles; Genus species: Proteles cristatus. Animal characteristics: Head-Body Length: 85-105 cm; Height: 40-50 cm; Weight: 8-12 kg; Identification: The aardwolf has a yellowish coat with a black stripe running along the back and extending to the tip of the tail. Three black stripes run vertically along its sides. The aardwolf also has stripes on its legs; Habitat: Grasslands, savannas, scrub and rocky areas; Diet: Carnivore: termites, ants; Reproduction: After a gestation period of 2-3 months, females give birth to 2-4 cubs. Six to eight weeks later, the cubs first leave the den and are foraging independently by four months of age. The cubs leave their parents at the start of the next breeding season to establish their own territories; Social Structure: Aardwolves are generally solitary; Behavior: The aardwolf's behavior is dependent on its food source; therefore it is nocturnal. Territories are vigorously defended; Status: No special status; Interesting Facts: Aardwolves have been known to consume up to 200,000 termites in a single night. They are beneficial to livestock ranches because they help stop termite infestations.