About Predators of Armadillos
The Spanish word armadillo means "little armored one" and it is a fitting description of this odd mammal. Armadillos are native to the New World. They are covered with a hard shell comprising bony plates and leathery skin that offers them protection from predators. However, the armadillo, which has poor eyesight, is not invulnerable to attack.
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Geography
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Armadillos are limited to warm climates, living in South America, Central America, and Mexico and parts of the Southern United States. There are several species of armadillos. The nine-banded armadillo is the only one expanding its range. The nine-banded armadillo crossed the Rio Grande into Texas in the 1850s and is seen farther north every year. They are able to hold their breath for 10 minutes and walk along a river's bottom or inflate themselves and float across.
Types
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The armadillo has a number of predators. These include coyotes, wolves, foxes, bears, raccoons, domestic dogs and panthers. They are also trapped for food by humans.
Function
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Armadillos defend themselves by being able to flee, or, as in one species, by being able to roll itself into a ball. The armadillo will curl itself up in its burrow with its shell up and dig in, preventing attack. Armadillos can also dig rapidly with their powerful front claws.
Misconceptions
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Nine-banded armadillo
The majority of armadillo species cannot roll themselves into a ball. Only the three-banded armadillo uses this method of defense. Other species must resort to other means to survive.
Considerations
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Armadillos have one method of escape that often backfires on them. When they are startled by a predator they have been known to jump straight up in the air about three feet. This so unnerves the attackers that the armadillo can sometimes get a jump on it and scurry to safety. However, when the armadillo is crossing the road and the "predator" is a car or truck, this ploy results in the armadillo becoming road kill.
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