

They live as far north as the middle of the United States, and as far south as the tip of South America. Other species, like the little pink fairy armadillo, live in a relatively small area. Some species, like the nine-banded armadillo, have very large ranges. Distribution of the ArmadilloĪ number of different armadillo species live in North, Central, and South America. Within their range, these creatures live in many different types of habitats. They also live in sand dunes, tropical rainforests, prairies, scrublands, and more. Other species live in open grasslands, or lowland forests. Some species live in areas with moist soil, close to rivers or streams. With such a wide variety of species, the habitat preference of armadillos is quite wide. During these jumps, they can reach heights of three or four feet! Sadly, this method is ineffective against cars, and armadillos are very commonly victims of unsuspecting drivers. Instead of simply fleeing, many armadillos leap straight up into the air. Spunky and Spooked – When frightened, armadillos have a rather odd coping method.They are 100% genetically identical to one another. These babies are identical quadruplets, and all originate from a single egg. Identical Infants – One species of armadillo, the nine-banded armadillo, gives birth to four babies at a time.The only species that is capable of this unique behavior is the three-banded armadillo. Ringed and Round – Despite the popular myth, most species of armadillos cannot roll themselves into a ball.Researchers estimate that the largest glyptodonts could weigh nearly 4,500 lbs.! These extinct creatures looked much like modern-day armadillos, only blown up several hundred sizes larger. Ancient Animals – Scientists believe that the extinct glyptodont was related to modern-day armadillos.Of course, such an odd-looking animal has to be equally as interesting! Armadillos are unique animals, with unique traits and behaviors. They have a thick leathery “shell” of skin, which protects them from predators. long, and weighs less than a pound! As a whole, armadillos usually have tank-like bodies, with short legs and sturdy builds. There are at least 21 different species of armadillo, each with its own unique appearance.
