Armadillo Facts
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Scientific Name: |
Dasypus novemcinctus (commonly for the nine-banded armadillo) |
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Class: |
Mammalia |
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Order: |
Cingulata |
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Family: |
Dasypodidae, Chlamyphoridae |
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Species: |
21 living species |
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Life Span: |
7–20 years (varies by species) |
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Diet: |
Insects, ants, termites, grubs, small invertebrates |
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Size: |
13–150 cm (5–59 inches) |
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Weight: |
85 g – 54 kg (0.2–119 lb) |
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Speed: |
Up to 48 km/h (30 mph) for short bursts |
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Predators: |
Coyotes, jaguars, wolves, bears, humans |
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Locations: |
North America, Central America, South America |
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Habitat: |
Grasslands, forests, deserts, wetlands |
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Population: |
Varies by species (some common, some endangered) |
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Gestation: |
60–120 days (up to 8 months with delayed implantation) |
Armadillo Facts:
- Armadillos are covered in a tough, bony armor made of keratin plates.
- Only three-banded armadillos can roll completely into a ball for protection.
- Nine-banded armadillos usually give birth to four identical babies.
- They are excellent diggers and use sharp claws to build underground burrows.
- Armadillos can swim by swallowing air to float or walk underwater while holding their breath.
- They have poor eyesight but an excellent sense of smell to find food.
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