Armadillos, known for their bony, armor-like shells, are unique mammals found across the Americas. Their appearance often raises questions about their temperament and whether they pose a danger to humans or property. This article addresses common concerns about health risks and potential damage they might cause.
Understanding Armadillo Behavior
Armadillos are generally shy and reclusive animals, preferring to avoid human interaction. They are primarily nocturnal, emerging at dusk to forage for food, though they can be active during the day, especially in cooler weather. Their poor eyesight means they rely heavily on their excellent sense of smell to locate their insect prey, which includes ants, termites, beetles, and grubs.
Their foraging involves extensive digging in lawns and gardens as they search for food. When startled or sensing danger, an armadillo’s primary instinct is to flee, often at surprising speeds. They may also jump straight up, a defensive reflex that can be unexpected.
Aggression from armadillos is rare and typically only occurs if an animal feels cornered or directly threatened. If trapped, they might hiss, growl, or attempt to scratch as a means of escape, but actual attacks on humans are uncommon.
Potential Health Risks
A primary health concern associated with armadillos is their capacity to carry Mycobacterium leprae, the bacterium responsible for Hansen’s disease, commonly known as leprosy. Armadillos are among the few mammals, besides humans, susceptible to this bacterium, making them a natural reservoir. Transmission to humans is rare and typically requires prolonged, direct contact with an infected animal or, less commonly, consumption of undercooked armadillo meat.
Armadillos can also carry other pathogens, though these are less common. Salmonella bacteria can be present in their droppings, posing a risk if proper hygiene is not maintained after contact with contaminated areas. While rabies is theoretically possible in any mammal, it is extremely rare in armadillos. An armadillo seen active during the day is not necessarily rabid, as they may forage in daylight.
To minimize health risks, avoid direct contact with armadillos, especially those that appear sick or injured. Practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands thoroughly after any potential contact with an armadillo or its environment, can help prevent the spread of pathogens. This caution is important for general safety around wildlife.
Physical Dangers and Property Damage
While armadillos are not typically aggressive, minor physical injury can occur if one is handled or feels cornered. Their strong claws, adapted for digging, could cause scratches if they attempt to escape. Bites are extremely rare, as their defense mechanism is primarily to flee or burrow rather than confront. Such injuries are generally not severe and are easily avoidable by maintaining distance.
Property damage is a more common concern due to their digging habits. Armadillos forage for insects by rooting in loose soil, creating shallow holes, typically 3 to 5 inches wide and 1 to 3 inches deep, in lawns and gardens. Their persistent burrowing can also undermine structures. They may dig burrows, approximately 7 to 10 inches in diameter, near foundations, sheds, porches, or under sidewalks and driveways. This extensive digging can lead to cracked concrete, uprooted plants, and damage to irrigation systems or underground wiring.
Coexisting Safely
To safely coexist with armadillos, maintaining a respectful distance is important. Avoid attempting to pet, feed, or handle these wild animals, as direct contact increases the risk of scratches or potential pathogen exposure. If an armadillo is encountered, simply observe it from afar and allow it to move along naturally.
Preventing armadillos from becoming a nuisance often involves making properties less attractive to them. Securing garbage cans and pet food outdoors can remove attractants that might draw them in.
For persistent issues, humane deterrence methods can be employed. Motion-activated sprinklers or lights can startle armadillos and encourage them to leave an area. Filling in existing burrows, particularly during the day when the animal is likely foraging elsewhere, can discourage them from returning to that specific spot. If an armadillo appears sick, injured, or is causing significant property damage, contacting local animal control or wildlife services is appropriate.