13 Surprising Facts About Armadillos You Probably Didn’t Know

Did you know that the word “armadillo” comes from the Spanish phrase meaning “little armored one”? Or that the tough armor of an armadillo is actually made of bony plates coated with keratin, the same material that makes up our nails and hair? These curious creatures belong to a group of mammals with about 20 different species, all tracing their roots back to South America. What’s even more fascinating is that armadillos come in a variety of sizes, exhibit different behaviors, and thrive in diverse habitats.

Sadly, not all armadillos are thriving in the wild. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), two species of armadillo are classified as vulnerable, and five are considered near threatened. Additionally, five more species are data deficient, meaning there’s not enough information available, though they are suspected to be at risk. In a groundbreaking move in 2016, scientists reclassified the greater long-nosed armadillo into three separate species, though these newly defined species have not been thoroughly evaluated since their classification.

While armadillos may appear as strange, armored creatures, their fascinating adaptations and unique place in the ecosystem make them worth learning more about. Below, we’ve compiled 13 fascinating facts about armadillos that not only reveal their remarkable biology but also shed light on their conservation challenges and contributions to our understanding of the natural world. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply curious, these lesser-known facts will definitely surprise you!

1. Only One Armadillo Species Is Found in the United States

The nine-banded armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus) holds a unique place in North America’s wildlife as the only armadillo species to have migrated to the region. Initially confined to the humid subtropical areas of the United States, its range has expanded significantly over the years. Today, these resilient creatures can be found as far north as Nebraska and Illinois. A key factor driving this northern migration is the changing climate, with warmer winters due to climate change likely helping to further push their boundaries into new territories, which may affect local ecosystems in unexpected ways.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the nine-banded armadillo is its reproduction method, which sets it apart from nearly all other mammals. They give birth to genetically identical young, a process known as polyembryony, where a single fertilized egg splits into multiple embryos, all of which are genetically identical. This form of reproduction is unique to nine-banded armadillos and other species in the Dasypus genus. This phenomenon not only adds to their intrigue but also raises important questions about genetic diversity and the survival strategies of these animals.

Another notable behavior of the nine-banded armadillo is its surprising ability to leap. When startled, this little armored creature can jump up to 3-4 feet straight into the air, an action that often catches observers off guard. This rapid, vertical leap is a defense mechanism to evade predators, showcasing the armadillo’s instinctive response to danger despite its seemingly slow and deliberate movements on the ground.

The nine-banded armadillo is truly a marvel of adaptation, and its growing presence in the U.S. highlights the complex ways in which climate change is influencing wildlife migration patterns. With their unique reproductive strategy and impressive agility, these armadillos continue to captivate the interest of scientists and nature enthusiasts alike.

2. Brazilian Three-Banded Armadillos Are Lazarus Species

The Brazilian three-banded armadillo (Tolypeutes tricinctus) is a fascinating example of nature’s resilience. Once believed to be extinct, this remarkable species made a surprising comeback in 1988 when researchers discovered small, scattered populations still thriving in the wild. Such species, once thought lost but later rediscovered, are often referred to as “Lazarus species,” named after the biblical figure who rose from the dead. The rediscovery of the Brazilian three-banded armadillo gave hope to conservationists and highlighted the importance of ongoing research in uncovering the hidden secrets of the natural world.

Despite this encouraging news, the Brazilian three-banded armadillo remains in critical danger. It is currently listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and classified as endangered within Brazil. The exact population size of this elusive armadillo is still unknown, primarily due to its nocturnal lifestyle and the challenges involved in tracking such a secretive creature. Their habitat, a mix of dry forests and scrublands, is rapidly shrinking due to human activity, particularly the conversion of land into sugarcane and soybean plantations. These agricultural practices not only destroy the armadillo’s habitat but also fragment it, making it even harder for populations to thrive and reconnect.

Poaching is another serious threat to the Brazilian three-banded armadillo. This species is often hunted for its distinctive armor, which can be sold illegally, and it is also a target for the illegal pet trade. These combined threats make the survival of the species even more precarious.

The Brazilian three-banded armadillo is a poignant reminder of how quickly species can be pushed to the brink of extinction, even when their existence seems assured. As researchers continue to monitor the armadillo’s remaining populations, conservation efforts are crucial to ensure this remarkable species has a fighting chance for survival. Preserving its habitat, combating poaching, and supporting sustainable land-use practices are vital steps toward safeguarding the future of the Brazilian three-banded armadillo.

3. Giant Glyptodonts Are The Armadillo’s Extinct Kin

Glyptodonts were massive, heavily armored mammals that roamed the Earth long before humans, resembling dinosaur-sized versions of modern armadillos. In 2016, scientists made a groundbreaking discovery, classifying glyptodonts as a subfamily of armadillos. These prehistoric giants first appeared around 35 million years ago, during the late Eocene epoch. However, despite their formidable size and armor, glyptodonts went extinct toward the end of the last ice age, while their smaller, more lightly armored relatives, the modern armadillos, managed to survive.

One of the significant factors contributing to their extinction was human activity. Early humans hunted these two-ton animals for their meat, taking advantage of their size as a resource. The glyptodonts’ massive bony carapace, which provided them with protection from predators, was also used by humans to create shelters and other structures, further contributing to the decline of these giant mammals. The survival of their smaller relatives underscores the adaptability of the armadillo family, with the glyptodonts serving as a fascinating but extinct chapter in the evolutionary history of this unique group of animals.

4. Armadillos Sleep Up to 16 Hours Each Day

Armadillos are primarily nocturnal creatures, carrying out most of their essential activities—such as foraging, eating, burrowing, and mating—during the night. Throughout the day, they can sleep for up to 16 hours, typically in the safety of their burrows. These burrows serve as a critical sanctuary from predators and extreme weather. While armadillos tend to keep to themselves and rarely share their burrows with other members of their species, they are known to coexist with other animals like tortoises, snakes, and rats, which may also seek refuge in the same underground spaces.

When they are awake, armadillos are highly active and spend more time foraging than many other mammals. Their quest for food is so constant that only two marsupial species and ground squirrels are known to devote more time to feeding. This tireless search for food underscores their high metabolic rate and the importance of maintaining their energy levels through a diet primarily consisting of insects, small invertebrates, and plant matter.

5. Armadillos Spread Leprosy

Armadillos are the only nonhuman animals known to spread leprosy, now referred to as Hansen’s Disease. This is due to the unique characteristics of their biology, specifically their low body temperature, which creates an ideal environment for the bacteria responsible for the disease to thrive. Researchers believe armadillos likely acquired Hansen’s disease from contact with humans during the 15th century, when European explorers brought the disease to the Americas.

Humans can contract armadillo-borne Hansen’s disease through direct contact, such as hunting or consuming the meat of these animals. In rare instances, individuals have also been infected by inhaling spores from armadillo feces. While the disease is treatable with antibiotics, the connection between armadillos and the spread of Hansen’s disease highlights the complex interactions between humans and wildlife, as well as the ongoing need for research and precautions when handling these creatures.

6. Only 2 Species of Armadillo Are Capable of Rolling Into a Ball

A common myth surrounding armadillos is that they can curl up into tight balls and roll away from predators. In reality, this behavior is not something armadillos actively do to escape danger. The only armadillos capable of curling into tight balls are two species from the Tolypeutes genus—the Brazilian and Southern three-banded armadillos. These species are uniquely adapted with a flexible, segmented shell that allows them to roll into a ball for protection.

All other armadillo species, however, have a more rigid armor with too many overlapping plates to achieve this level of flexibility. Instead of rolling up, most armadillos rely on other strategies, such as digging into burrows or using their speed and agility to escape from predators. The ability to curl into a ball is a remarkable adaptation seen only in these two species, making them stand out among the diverse armadillo family.

7. The Giant Armadillo Is the Largest of the Species

The giant armadillo (Priodontes maximus) is the largest living species of armadillo, with individuals weighing between 45 and 130 pounds in the wild. In captivity, some have been known to reach an impressive 176 pounds. These massive creatures can stretch nearly 5.9 feet in length, including their tail, making them a truly formidable presence. Their most striking feature is their 8-inch middle front claws, which are the longest claws of any mammal, used primarily for digging into the earth in search of food like insects and small invertebrates.

However, despite their size and strength, giant armadillos face significant threats. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists them as a vulnerable species, primarily due to hunting for their meat and the ongoing destruction of their natural habitat. Furthermore, poaching for the illegal pet trade adds another layer of risk to their survival. The combination of these threats means the future of the giant armadillo is uncertain unless conservation efforts intensify to protect their habitats and reduce human impact.

8. The Pink Fairy Armadillo Is the Smallest of the Species

The pink fairy armadillo (Chlamyphorus truncatus) is a unique and striking species, named for its soft pink armor and small size. Measuring just 4 to 6 inches in length and weighing around 3.5 ounces, it is the smallest armadillo species. In addition to the armor on its back, the pink fairy armadillo has a vertical plate on its rump, which it uses to backfill burrows, a behavior that helps it create secure hiding places from predators.

Native to the sandy plains and scrubby grasslands of central Argentina, the pink fairy armadillo is a rare and elusive creature, often going unseen by researchers. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) currently lists the species as “data deficient,” meaning there is not enough information to fully assess its conservation status. However, the available data suggests that the species may be at risk of becoming near threatened. The primary threat to the pink fairy armadillo is habitat loss due to agricultural expansion and human encroachment. Additionally, the armadillo’s growing popularity on social media has led to an alarming increase in illegal capture for the pet trade, with most captured individuals dying within days due to improper care and stress. These combined pressures highlight the need for greater awareness and conservation efforts to protect this delicate species.

9. This Amadillo Screams to Warn Off Predators

The screaming hairy armadillo (Chaetophractus vellerosus) is known for more than just its tough armor—it also boasts a set of screeching lungs. When threatened, this species emits incredibly loud, alarm-like vocalizations, which serve as a defense mechanism to warn off potential predators or intruders. These high-pitched screams are among the most distinctive features of this armadillo, setting it apart from other species in the armadillo family.

Despite these unique vocalizations, the screaming hairy armadillo faces threats from hunters who trap it for its meat and carapace. However, the species remains classified as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) across most of its range, which includes portions of Bolivia, Paraguay, Chile, and Argentina. This status reflects the species’ relatively stable population, though continued monitoring is important to ensure that hunting pressures and habitat loss do not threaten its survival in the long term.

10. Pichi Are the Only Armadillo Species to Hibernate

Armadillos are known for spending much of their lives resting, but the pichi (Zaedyus pichiy) takes this behavior to a whole new level by hibernating each winter. Before entering hibernation, the pichi builds up fat stores and settles into a burrow, where its body temperature drops significantly—from a normal 95 degrees to a chilly 58 degrees Fahrenheit. This remarkable ability allows the pichi to survive the harsh winter months when food is scarce. Additionally, pichis regularly enter states of torpor throughout the day, a form of mini-hibernation that helps conserve energy during periods of rest.

The pichi is native to the Patagonian Steppe and Pampas regions, where it thrives in the arid, windswept landscapes. Its unique adaptations, including hibernation and torpor, make it one of the most specialized armadillo species in terms of energy conservation and survival strategies in challenging environments.

11. Some Armadillo Species Are at Risk for Extinction

While the population of the nine-banded armadillo currently remains stable and thriving, other armadillo species are not as fortunate. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified the Brazilian three-banded armadillo and the giant armadillo as vulnerable. Additionally, the Pichi, Southern long-nosed, Northern long-nosed, Southern three-banded, and Chacoan naked-tailed armadillos are listed as near threatened. There are also five other species with data-deficient status, meaning there isn’t enough information available, though they are believed to be potentially endangered.

The primary threats facing armadillos are hunting and habitat loss. Hunting for meat and the illegal pet trade puts pressure on many species. However, habitat loss is perhaps the most significant long-term threat. Mining, deforestation for palm oil plantations, cattle ranching, and other forms of industrial agriculture are the main contributors to habitat destruction. In recent years, mining has surged, driven by the growing global demand for copper, which is heavily used in electronics. This increased mining activity not only displaces armadillos from their habitats but also creates a fragmented landscape, making it even more difficult for these creatures to survive. These combined pressures highlight the urgent need for conservation efforts to protect armadillos and their fragile environments.

12. Armadillo Shells Are Used to Make Musical Instruments

Charangos, traditional 10-stringed instruments, are an essential part of the cultural fabric of Andean music in countries like Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, and Peru. Historically, these instruments were crafted using the dried shells of armadillos, which provided a unique and resonant sound. However, in modern times, charangos are primarily made from wood or occasionally calabash gourds, offering a more sustainable and accessible alternative to the use of armadillo shells.

In addition to their use in charangos, armadillo shells were also repurposed to create carnival rattles known as matracas. These distinctive instruments were often used during festivals and celebrations. However, due to concerns over wildlife conservation, the practice of using armadillo shells for matracas became increasingly controversial. In 2015, laws were put into place making it illegal to own or sell new armadillo matracas, helping to protect these creatures from further exploitation and contributing to broader conservation efforts.

13. Armadillos Are Good Swimmers

Armadillos are surprisingly skilled swimmers and can hold their breath for 4 to 6 minutes, enabling them to navigate aquatic environments with ease. They typically walk across the bottom of streams, using their strong legs to move along the riverbed. When faced with larger bodies of water, armadillos are known to gulp air, which helps them achieve buoyancy, allowing them to float and “dog paddle” across. This ability to swim has played a significant role in the armadillo’s ability to expand its range.

One of the most notable examples of armadillo migration is the spread of the nine-banded armadillo across the United States in the 20th century. As the species crossed the Rio Grande into the U.S., their swimming capabilities allowed them to move freely across rivers and streams, gradually expanding their territory and adapting to new environments. This unique adaptation has been instrumental in the armadillo’s survival and spread, demonstrating their remarkable ability to adapt to changing landscapes and habitats.