Armadillos
Living fossils in armor
About Our Armadillos
Armadillos are the only living mammals that wear protective armor! Their shell is made of bony plates covered in tough keratin - the same material as our fingernails. These prehistoric-looking creatures have been around for millions of years.
Native to the Americas, armadillos are expert diggers with powerful claws that can excavate burrows up to 15 feet deep. They have poor eyesight but an excellent sense of smell that helps them find food like insects, grubs, and small invertebrates.
Despite their armored appearance, armadillos are quite gentle and fascinating to observe. Watch them waddle around with their distinctive gait, dig for food, and showcase their amazing adaptations!
Fun Armadillo Facts
Living armor
Their shell is made of bony plates covered in keratin - the same material as fingernails!
Excellent diggers
Armadillos can dig a burrow up to 15 feet deep in just a few hours using their powerful claws.
They always have identical quadruplets
Nine-banded armadillos always give birth to four genetically identical babies!
Can hold their breath for 6 minutes
This allows them to walk along the bottom of rivers and ponds to cross water.
Prehistoric relatives
Armadillos are related to ancient giant ground sloths that lived millions of years ago!
Natural pest control
They eat insects, grubs, and other pests, making them beneficial for gardens and farms.
Photo Gallery
Visit Our Armadillos
Come meet these fascinating armored mammals and learn about their prehistoric heritage!