What Types of Environment Do Armadillos Live In?
Armadillos are mammals and are most closely related to sloths and anteaters. There are 20 recognized species of armadillo which have spread their habitat from their native South America into the north. Their most recognizable feature is the armor plating which covers most of their body. This armor is made out of bone and is designed to protect them against predators. Armadillos are not very fussy about their environment, but do have favored conditions.
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Locations
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The armadillo's range is from the southern part of South America to the southern United States. They are happy in rainforests, grasslands and more deserted regions where there are warm temperatures all year. Due to low metabolic rates and fat storage armadillos do not like cold weather or high altitudes. The nine-banded armadillo lives in southern states such as Florida, California and the Carolinas and have been found as far north as Nebraska.
Living Arrangements
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Along with suitable climate, armadillos also require a den to protect them from predators, as they sleep for 16 hours a day. They are very effective burrowers with short powerful legs and strong claws. This means the area which they live on must be on soil rather than rock so they can dig. The areas armadillos favor are near river and stream banks where the soil is softest. They spend most of their time underground to avoid predators and to maintain body heat. Females also give birth underground.
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Food
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Armadillos will eat any kind of insect available, with ants and termites being a particular favorite of some species. Grubs, worms, spiders and insect larvae are also common foods for Armadillos. A large supply of food is essential in an armadillo's choice of habitat. In hard times armadillos will also eat plants and fruit. Armadillos only have a few molar-like teeth, so cannot chew anything larger than insects, and have a long sticky tongue like an anteater. A supply of water is also important for drinking and washing.
Predators
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Armadillos have few natural predators, which is why they have been able to migrate so successfully. Their hard outer shell, a unique feature in these mammals, protects them from most larger animals, and their sharp powerful claws are also a useful defense. Despite their short legs armadillos are also quite fast runners. By far the greatest threat to them is humans. Deforestation in South America has shrunk the available habitat, and in the past they were hunted for their shells and for food.
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References
- Photo Credit Tom Brakefield/Stockbyte/Getty Images
