Armadillos are small, piglike mammals related to sloths and anteaters. They have a bony armor that protects them from enemies and other dangers. The word armadillo is Spanish for “little armored one.”

Where armadillos live

Armadillos belong to the scientific family Dasypodidae, which contains 20 species. They are found mainly in or near tropical regions of Central and South America. One species can be found in the central United States. Most species inhabit open areas, but some live in forests.

Physical characteristics

Armadillos are stout, short-legged animals with strong, curved claws. They are usually brownish black, marked with yellow above and yellowish white underneath. Their armor is made up of solid plates and flexible bands. It covers most of the body, including the head and usually the tail. The three-, six-, and nine-banded armadillos are named for the number of movable bands in their armor. Species range in length from about 6 inches (15 centimeters) to 5 feet (1.5 meters).

The coat of armadillos varies among the species. Some armadillos, such as the nine-banded species, have very little hair. The pink fairy armadillo, however, has a fairly dense coat of soft, white hair on its underparts and sides.

Behavior

Armadillos live alone, in pairs, or in small groups. They are usually active at night. They live in burrows and can dig very quickly. Armadillos feed mainly on termites and other insects, worms, roots, and small animals. They can run surprisingly fast on their short legs and are good swimmers. Before entering the water they swallow air to help keep afloat.

Armadillos are timid animals. When threatened, they retreat to their burrows when possible. If caught in the open, they draw in their feet so their armor touches the ground. They may also run away or claw at the attacker. The three-banded armadillos are able to roll up into a ball to protect their underparts.

Female armadillos of some species bear one to 12 identical young. All develop from a single egg, or ovum, and are the same sex.