Aardwolves are insect-specialist hyenids rarely kept in zoos; meeting their specialized needs requires understanding their nocturnal termite-foraging lifestyle.
Aardwolves in captivity face challenges because their natural diet of Trinervitermes termites is difficult to replicate. Commercial ant/termite substitutes or mealworm-based diets must be carefully formulated to meet micronutrient needs. Nocturnal species housed under standard zoo lighting schedules may experience circadian disruption. Enrichment should simulate termite mound foraging — scatter feeding, puzzle feeders embedded in substrate, and olfactory stimulation are all beneficial. Their solitary nature means cohousing must be carefully managed to prevent stress.