Armadillos

Armadillos are the only mammals with a hard shell on their back. They live in North, Central, and South America. The name armadillo means 'little armored one' in Spanish. There are about 20 different kinds of armadillos in the world.

Hard Shells

An armadillo's shell is made of bony plates covered in skin. The shell protects them from predators. Some kinds of armadillos can roll into a ball when they feel scared. Others run and hide in burrows. The shell is tough but still lets them move around easily.

Night Hunters

Armadillos are mostly active at night. They use their strong claws to dig up insects, worms, and grubs. Their sense of smell helps them find food underground. Armadillos also dig long burrows to sleep in during the day. A burrow can have many tunnels with different rooms.

Fun Facts

• Nine-banded armadillos almost always have four identical baby quadruplets.
• Armadillos can hold their breath for up to six minutes underwater.
• Only the three-banded armadillo can roll all the way into a ball.

Did You Know?

Armadillos can actually cross rivers by walking along the bottom. They can also blow up their stomachs with air and float across the water.