Look! It's an Armadillo!
1 Have you ever seen an armadillo? Most people in the United States never will. But if you live in Oklahoma, you just might get the chance!
2 Armadillos are the most unusual animals ever! If you ever see an armadillo, the first thing you’ll notice is that it’s covered in leathery scales. It may even remind you of the shell of a turtle. These gray scales are hard and strong. They protect armadillos from their enemies and other dangerous things in their environment such as thorns.
The word “armadillo” means “little armored one” in Spanish. It is the perfect name for this little creature because it has bony scales that cover it from head to tail. Believe it or not, armadillos are the only living mammals that have shells like this. Their shells often lead people to believe they are related to turtles. This lack of fur explains why armadillos live in warm climates.
3 Armadillos also have short legs and long bodies. Even though they are close to the ground, adult armadillos can be over 2
4 You might think armadillos are related to turtles because of their shells. Don’t be fooled, though! Armadillos are mammals, like cats, dogs, and people. However, it is their shells that make the curious animals different.
5 Many mammals are covered in fur that keeps them warm like a winter coat. Not armadillos! Their shells are sturdy, but the shells don’t protect them from freezing temperatures. That is why armadillos have to be careful about where they live; don’t waste your time searching for armadillos in Alaska or Maine! It’s too cold for them to live there. Oklahoma, on the other hand, is a great place for these creatures. They can also be found in Texas, Louisiana, and Florida.
6 Armadillos need good weather, but they also need to live where the soil is soft. Armadillos make their homes in holes in the ground called burrows. Although the animals have long, sharp claws perfect for digging, a cold climate can make the dirt difficult to get through. These burrows are extremely important to armadillos. They use them to live in, raise their families, and hide from other animals.
7 The ground isn’t just an armadillo home—it’s also a supermarket! Armadillos dig for their food. They often feast on insects, worms, and lizards. They also eat plant roots and berries. If they can’t dig, they can’t survive.
8 Like any wild animal, armadillos have predators. Sometimes, coyotes chase them. Other times, humans hunt them because they destroy crops while digging for food. Many people love armadillos, however. Some kind farmers trap the pesky creatures and release them far away from their crops. There is also a town that loves armadillos so much that it celebrates Armadillo Day. You might even see an armadillo race at a county fair.
9 Don’t forget—you could spot an armadillo in your own backyard. It might be wandering in the woods or grazing in your garden right now. Seeing an armadillo is something most kids in the United States will never experience.