Armadillos in Central Arkansas
There are about 20 species of armadillos worldwide, but the only one present in the United States is the nine-banded armadillo. The name “armadillo” comes from Spanish, meaning “little armored one,” reflecting their bony plates. When startled, these armadillos can leap up to 4 to 5 feet into the air. Common throughout the southeastern United States, these burrowing mammals are often a headache for homeowners due to their habit of digging up landscapes in search of food and shelter.
Armadillo Habitat
In the wild, armadillos thrive in warm, wet climates and can be found in forest and scrub-brush areas in tropical and temperate regions. They prefer to create their subterranean dwellings amidst forested terrain, where they scavenge for plants and small invertebrates on the forest floor. Whether digging their own burrows or repurposing those of fellow armadillos, tortoises, or naturally formed crevices, they maintain year-round activity, abstaining from hibernation, yet struggling to endure temperatures exceeding 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Their abandoned burrows serve as refuges for diverse wildlife, including pine snakes, rabbits, opossums, striped skunks, burrowing owls, and additional snake species.
Armadillo Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
Armadillos, driven by their need for shelter and prey, wreak havoc on lawns and gardens, earning a reputation as destructive creatures. Utilizing their powerful digging capabilities, they tunnel beneath plants, landscape structures, foundations, and driveways, potentially undermining tree roots and structural integrity. Additionally, armadillos pose health risks, as they may harbor mycobacterium leprae, the causative agent of leprosy, along with tapeworms and salmonella in their excrement. If you have an issue with armadillos, it is recommended to contact a wildlife control professional.
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