Description: The nine-banded armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus) is an intriguing creature with bony armor and leathery skin covering its body. Eight to ten bony bands encircle its midriff, enabling it a certain amount of flexibility. This armadillo species is about the size of a small dog, reaching lengths of 14 to 22 inches and wieghts of 5 to 14 pounds. The armadillo has a tail that can grow to a length of about 18 inches.
Nine-banded armadillos have four toes on each of their front feet and five toes on their hind feet. They have strong claws and their long tail is covered by the same bony armor that shields the rest of their body. These armadillos construct numerous, complex burrow systems.
Classification:
Habitat: Southern United States, Mexico, Caribean, Central and South America.
Diet: Insects, small birds, fruits, roots.
Status: Locally common.
References:
- IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.
- Burnie, D. and D.E. Wilson. Animal. Dorling Kindersley. London. 2001.
- Dasypus novemcinctus. University of Michigan Museum of Zoology's Animal Diversity Web.
