Discover and Read Nonfiction: Armadillos and Learning about Armadillos Video

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Armadillo

Armadillos are threatened by overhunting and the loss of habitat. They are dark brown except for their heads, tails and the lower edges of their shells, which are nearly white. The necks and backs of armadillos are covered in a flexible "armor”. Armadillo’s front feet have large powerful claws. They are very agile and sometimes balance themselves on their hind legs and tail.

The head and body of the armadillo measures 30 to 40 inches long, and their tails reach about 20 inches. Armadillos can reach 130 pounds, but most weigh between 40 to 70 pounds. Armadillos can live 12 to 15 years. Armadillos live in burrows near water in grassland, brush land, woodland, and forest habitats.

The armadillo diet consists of termites, insects, spiders, worms, larvae, and snakes. Armadillos are nocturnal animals, meaning they are active at night and sleep during the day. They are powerful and quick diggers. Armadillos dig the burrows they live in. They also dig to find food and to escape predators.