Aardvarks are nocturnal, insectivorous burrowers native to sub-Saharan Africa whose highly specialised diet and behaviour create unique challenges for zoo welfare management that relatively few facilities have mastered.
Aardvarks in zoo settings require exceptional care investment. Their nocturnal nature means daytime exhibit viewing conflicts with their natural activity patterns unless nocturnal house facilities are provided. Dietary needs require either live insect colony management — logistically demanding — or acceptance of prepared diets that may not fully replicate nutritional needs. Burrowing motivation is strong and must be accommodated with appropriate substrate depth to prevent frustration. The low number of facilities keeping aardvarks reflects the genuine difficulty of meeting their welfare needs rather than lack of conservation interest. Zoos considering aardvark acquisition should honestly assess whether their facilities and expertise can provide welfare standards that justify the undertaking.