Description

This member of the hyaena family differs from the true hyaenas in having five instead of four toes on the front feet, relatively larger ears, and a narrower muzzle. It resembles true hyaenas in having long front legs and short hind legs. In fact, its body shape so resembles that of the hyaena that aardwolves are frequently killed by farmers who have mistaken them for hyaenas.

The aardwolf stands about 15-20 inches at the shoulder, and weighs 50-60 pounds; both sexes are the same size. The coat is yellow-gray with black stripes, except for the legs, which are black below the knee. The muzzle is black and hairless, the tail bushy and black-tipped. The hair along the back and neck is long; when the animal is frightened it erects the hair around the neck -- or, in extreme cases, along the whole back.

Distribution and Habitat

The aardwolf ranges throughout southern and eastern Africa. There are two distinct populations. One is found in southern Africa (South Africa, Namibia