Nine-Banded Armadillo

The Nine-banded Armadillo is a cat-sized, armored, insect-eating mammal. Similar in form to an anteater, the bony, scaled shell of the armadillo protects it from attacks by predators. Unfortunately, armadillos often fall victim to automobiles and are frequently found dead on roadsides. Armadillos are prolific diggers. Nine-banded armadillos have many predators, including pumas, coyotes, maned wolves, black bears, red wolves, alligators, jaguars, and bobcats. Habitat. The nine-banded armadillo can be found in bottomland hardwood forests, scrub and brushlands. It prefers areas with soft soil that it can burrow into. It is usually found near water sources like streams, creeks and water holes.

Scientific Name: Dasypus novemcinctus

Height: 5.9 – 9.8 in. (Adult, At the top of the shell)

Mass: 5.5 – 14 lbs (Adult)

Lifespan: 12 – 15 years

Gestation Period: 122 days

Length: 15 – 23 in. (Adult, Without Tail)