Genus Proteles is a taxonomic group of mammals which belong to the family Hyaenidae. However, there are many synonyms for the term Genus Proteles. One of the most commonly used synonyms is the term "Aardwolf", which is derived from the Afrikaans language. The term "maanhaar jackal" is another synonym for Proteles, which is used in South Africa. Other synonyms include the terms "cesmeler" and "aardvos" which are used in Turkey and the Netherlands respectively. Proteles species are native to southern and eastern Africa, and are known for subsisting almost entirely on termites. Despite being classified as hyenas, Proteles species differ greatly from other members of the family and are generally considered to form a very distinct group.