The Aardwolf along with the 3 species of Hyena make up the Hyaenidae family. They are similar in appearance to the Hyena with their taller forelegs, creating a sloping back. Their coats are yellowish/brown coat with a thick mane along the back, a long muzzle and pointed ears.

They live in the savannahs and bush, where they forage at night. They feed mainly on termites, but also eat other insects, mice, birds and eggs. Their eyesight and sense of smell is good, and their hearing acute. They live in or hide in underground burrows.