KAROO NEWS - Aardvarks are one of the legendary creatures of the Karoo, which many people wait a lifetime to catch a glimpse of.
These incredibly unusual creatures which look like a cross between a pig, a pangolin, a low-lying kangaroo and a giant mouse are responsible for the huge burrows which one sees scattered throughout the veld. Aardvark are the only living species of the order Tubulidentata (meaning tube-like teeth) on earth.
Their teeth are made up of tubes held together with cementum and have no enamel covering so wear away and regrow continuously. This is perfect for their diet of insects, mainly termites.
While they are born with incisors and canines, these soon fall out and adults only have molars at the back of the jaw.
Local conservationist, Maryke Stern, says that she has been delighted by about five reports of sightings of aardvark in the greater Karoo district over the last six weeks - particularly in Mountain Zebra National Park.
She says that, while it is not supported by scientific research, the 'old people' say that when it is dry and food is scarce, these beautiful creatures emerge during the day as well.
The scientific name for aardvark is Orycteropus, which means 'digging foot'. This animal is considered one of the fastest digging animals in the world, and when under threat can disappear in minutes by digging into the earth.
In the past month, residents of Nieu Bethesda have been fortunate to even witness aardvarks on the plains around the village.
There are also many active burrows flanking the village of Nieu Bethesda itself, with fresh spoor evident daily.
Mainly nocturnal, the aardvark photographed here was seen in the late afternoon. This aardvark was extremely relaxed in the presence of the vehicle. It zig-zagged speedily from termite mound to termite mound, cocking its head to one side before digging frenetically for tiny insect snacks. The aardvark's tongue is 30cm long, emerging from its long thin nose which is sticky and insects can thus be swallowed with little chewing.
It is worth keeping your eyes peeled beyond the fence line when driving through the grasslands of the Karoo. If you spot a dusty cloud, pause a while and look closely - you might be fortunate enough to spot this fascinating creature.
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