Aardvark

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The aardvark (Orycteropus afer) is a nocturnal mammal, found in central and southern Africa. The word aardvark is Afrikaans for "earth-pig".

It is a timid and defenceless animal, about the size of a small pig. It has a long head and pig-like snout, with long ears like those of a donkey. It feeds on termites and can dig holes so quickly that it can cover itself in five minutes, and can dig tunnels large enough for a small man to navigate.[1]

While U.S. combat aircraft usually have official names, unofficial ones are more common once they are in service. No official nickname was assigned to the F-111, but, in honor of its long nose that can droop, it is called the Aardvark.

References

  1. Oxford Paperback Encylopedia