Six-Banded Armadillo
The word ‘Armadillo’ is derived from a Spanish word meaning ‘little armoured one.’ Known for their distinctive yellow to reddish-brown bony armour (carapace), these creatures are excellent diggers and live primarily on open plains, although they can adapt to a range of habitats, including dry and wet savannahs, shrublands, and even agricultural lands. The six-banded armadillo, also called the yellow armadillo, is solitary and territorial, using its scent glands to mark its territory. While they are generally timid and prefer to flee when threatened, they can defend themselves if cornered, using their teeth and claws. These armadillos are most active during the night, with early morning and late afternoon being their prime active hours.
Diet
Six-banded armadillos are omnivorous, with a diet that includes insects, fruit, and small vertebrates such as frogs. Their preferred food sources are plant materials, including bromeliad fruit, tubers, and palm nuts, which make up about 90% of their diet. They also feed on ants, termites, carrion, and other small creatures. Despite their poor eyesight, they rely on their keen sense of smell to detect food, often feeding on dead carcasses by tearing off pieces with their claws and teeth.
FUN FACT
A fascinating feature of the six-banded armadillo is its long, sticky tongue, which it uses to lap up insects, particularly ants. These armadillos are skilled swimmers and stay afloat by swallowing air and using their fat-storing ability to help them stay on the surface. Unlike most armadillos, the six-banded armadillo cannot roll itself up into a ball to protect itself and will instead opt to run away and hide from predators in its burrow. When digging, they have the ability to seal their ears and nostrils, preventing dust and soil from entering their body. If their tail or shell gets damaged, they have the remarkable ability to regenerate these parts over time.
HABITAT
The six-banded armadillo is native to South America, particularly in areas such as Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Suriname, and Uruguay. They are found in savannas, primary and secondary forests, shrublands, and deciduous forests. Their burrows are typically located in grasslands and are often self-dug, with a single inverted U-shaped entrance.
LIFE SPAN
18 years.
Adopt a Six-Banded Armadillo
Miguel, our Armadillo, is a fascinating creature with his unique armor and digging skills. He’s always on the move, exploring his habitat. The Hero package ensures that Miguel gets the care and enrichment he needs to keep thriving. Adopt Miguel today and be part of his adventurous life at the zoo!
