Information About Armadillos

Florida armadillos are mammals that are found in North America (primarily in Texas and surrounding states) and which are considered as pests as they dig holes and tunnels that destroy human yards and gardens.



Appearance
The Orlando armadillo is small animal weighing approximately dozen pounds. Its body is covered in hard outside layer called the scutes. It's body is of an oblong shape. It has triangular head, close positioned eyes, and is of brown, light tan or gray color. So far as the wild animals are concerned, we all are not comfortable to have them at home as neither a pet nor we want them near about us anyway. This is just because of many common reasons.

Biology
Armadillos are primarily nocturnal animals, especially during the summer. During the winter, however, they will be active during the day. Florida armadillos as good diggers usually create several dens and use them according to their needs. They don't have good eyesight but they have excellent sense of smell. Although armadillos look clumsy, they are actually very capable and fast animals which becomes evident when they feel the need to run away. They are also good swimmers.

Life Cycle
The Orlando armadillo usually lives 10-15 years. They are solitary animals; males and females get together only during reproductive period, which happens once a year. After female gets impregnated, their paths will again separate and female will give birth to babies and care for them on her own. Female carries for 4 months and then gives birth, usually to 4 babies.

Habitat
Florida armadillos love to live underground and they prefer to create their dens in thick woodlands and forests near the rivers or creeks so to have regular source of drinkable water They prefer mild climate, i.e. where it is not too hot or too cold.

Diet
The Orlando armadillo usually eats insects and bugs he founds in the ground, using his excellent sense of smell. They collect insects and their larvae with their sticky tongues, successfully removing them from the ground.

Behavior
Armadillos usually tend to run away when they feel threatened. They are not fighters but instead run away for their life. They can also jump up in case of emergency, which can be quite dangerous for bikers driving in the night, when visibility is lower (and the biker will not be able to notice armadillo until it is too late and the animal will jump on them, making them cause an accident. Another way for armadillos to defend themselves is to dig up holes. Burrowing is another way to protect the Orlando armadillos use. Armadillos create very extensive and elaborate burrows with numerous tunnels connecting them.

Visit our Orlando wildlife control home page to learn more about us.