Three-Banded Armadillos
The only armadillos that roll into a perfect ball
About Our Three-Banded Armadillos
Our three-banded armadillos are truly unique - they're the only armadillo species in the world that can roll into a complete, tight ball! Native to South America, these adorable armored mammals use this amazing defense to protect their soft underbelly from predators.
Weighing just 2-3.5 pounds and measuring 8-11 inches long, three-banded armadillos are smaller and rounder than other armadillo species. Their three movable bands give them the flexibility to curl up completely, with their head and tail fitting together like puzzle pieces.
These gentle creatures primarily eat ants and termites, using their excellent sense of smell to locate food. Unlike other armadillos, they don't dig their own burrows - they prefer to use abandoned ones! Watch them explore, forage, and maybe even demonstrate their famous ball-rolling ability!
Fun Three-Banded Armadillo Facts
Only armadillo that rolls into a ball
Three-banded armadillos are the only species that can curl into a complete, tight ball for protection!
Head and tail fit like a puzzle
When rolled up, their head and tail interlock perfectly, leaving no gaps for predators to exploit.
Compact and adorable
Weighing just 2-3.5 pounds and 8-11 inches long, they're much smaller than other armadillo species!
Don't dig their own burrows
Unlike other armadillos, three-banded armadillos prefer to use burrows abandoned by other animals.
Ant and termite specialists
They use their long, sticky tongue to lap up ants and termites - their favorite foods!
Can live 15-20 years
With proper care, these fascinating armored mammals make long-lived animal ambassadors!
Photo Gallery
Visit Our Three-Banded Armadillos
Come meet these adorable armored mammals and watch them roll into a ball!