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The Interesting Armadillo
Scientific classification: Armadillos make up the family Dasypodidae. The peba is classified as Dasypus novemcinctus, and the six-banded armadillo as Euphractus sexcinctus. Three-banded armadillos make up the genus Tolypeutes. The giant armadillo is classified as Priodontes maximus.
Are armadillos dangerous?
Not really. They are wild animals, and any wild animal should be treated with caution and respect, but the average armadillo is not a dangerous creature. They are capable of harming people with their claws if they are handled incorrectly, but in most cases they will run away when they feel that they are in danger. I often look for armadillos at local parks and I try to get close to them. Sometimes one will let me follow it around, as long as I don't make any sudden moves. I have even managed to pet two. It didn't seem to care.
Why do armadillos get hit by cars so often?
Two reasons. First, armadillos are nocturnal. It is hard to see animals by the side of the road at night, so it is harder for motorists to avoid hitting them. Second, armadillos jump up in the air when they feel threatened. This often works to startle a predator, but against an automobile it doesn't work; they just end up jumping right into the front or underside of the car, with disasterous results.
Where can I find armadillos?
In the US, armadillos can be found all over the Southeast, and have been reported in California. They are scarce in the drier areas of Texas. The northernmost point that an armadillo has been spotted is the southern tip of Indiana, although this is surely an isolated case. Due to their inability to withstand extremely cold weather it is not likely that they will increase their range any further north.
Do armadillos really birth 4 identical young?
Yes. The nine-banded armadillo nearly always gives birth to four identical young. However, armadillos will occasionally bear litters of three or five young. Despite the number, the young are always identical. They form from the same egg, share the same placenta during development, and are all the same sex. This regular production of genetically identical young makes armadillos valuable to medical researchers.
Do armadillos make good pets?
In most cases, no, but some people have done it. Armadillos are wild animals and are not used to people. But they can be domesticated. If you REALLY want one as a pet, please do plenty of reasearch. Armadillos have special needs, and please don't lock it in a cage or small shed. That is cruel. Dillos are born free, it's best to keep them that way.
My favorite Armadillo Link: