Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
(The leprosy bacterium is difficult to culture and armadillos have a body temperature of 34 °C (93 °F), similar to human skin.) [26] Humans can acquire a leprosy infection from armadillos by handling them or consuming armadillo meat. [27] [28] Armadillos are a presumed vector and natural reservoir for the disease in Texas, Louisiana and Florida.
Nine-banded armadillos generally weigh from 2.5–6.5 kg (5.5–14.3 lb), though the largest specimens can scale up to 10 kg (22 lb). They are one of the largest species of armadillos. [8] Head and body length is 38–58 cm (15–23 in), which combines with the 26–53 cm (10–21 in) tail, for a total length of 64–107 cm (25–42 in).
Giant armadillos are solitary and nocturnal, spending the day in burrows. [6] They also burrow to escape predators, being unable to completely roll into a protective ball. [14] Compared with those of other armadillos, their burrows are unusually large, with entrances averaging 43 cm (17 in) wide, and typically opening to the west. [15]
A video shows a rare sighting of armadillo quadruplets in Texas. Here are 8 fun facts about the species that you probably don't know.
For premium support please call: 800-290-4726 more ways to reach us
Armadillos are also killed by dogs or coyotes as well as hunted by humans as a food source. [ 7 ] [ 8 ] [ 14 ] Despite hunting, predation, and highway accidents, the IUCN lists the majority of Dasypus species as a least concern endangered animal due to its very large distribution, living tolerance, and large progeny and population.
Six-banded armadillos are efficient diggers and form burrows to live in and search for prey. The armadillo is alert and primarily solitary. An omnivore, it feeds on insects, ants, carrion, and plant material. Due to their poor eyesight, armadillos rely on their sense of smell to detect prey and predators.
In Kansas City, they’ve become more common in recent years.