Armadillos, unique mammals recognized by their bony, armor-like shells, are native to the Americas, primarily found across the southern United States, Central, and South America. While generally perceived as harmless, questions about their behavior and health risks are common.
Armadillo Behavior
Armadillos are typically shy, solitary creatures that prefer to avoid human contact. They are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the night, though they may be seen during the day in cooler weather. Their primary defense mechanisms involve fleeing or quickly burrowing into the ground.
If an armadillo feels threatened or cornered, it may exhibit defensive behaviors like hissing, growling, or attempting to scratch. Some species, particularly the nine-banded armadillo, are also known to jump straight up when startled, which can be a particular hazard on roads. Despite these defensive actions, armadillos are not inherently aggressive towards humans, and actual attacks are rare.
Health Risks from Armadillos
The most recognized 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 one of the few species, besides humans, that can naturally host this bacterium due to their unusually low body temperature, which is hospitable to M. leprae. The nine-banded armadillo, found in the southern United States, is a natural reservoir for the disease.
Transmission to humans typically occurs through direct contact with an infected armadillo, such as handling the animal, or through consuming improperly cooked armadillo meat. While the risk of contracting leprosy from casual encounters with armadillos is considered low, it increases with more direct or frequent contact. Human contact with wild armadillos has contributed to infection rates in certain regions.
Armadillos can also carry other pathogens. These can include Salmonella bacteria, which can be spread through their feces and contaminate food or water sources. Although rare, armadillos have also been known to carry the rabies virus. Additionally, they can be carriers of parasites like tapeworms.
Coexisting Safely with Armadillos
To minimize potential health risks, observing armadillos from a distance is recommended. Avoid attempting to handle, feed, or approach them, as this increases the likelihood of direct contact. Prevent pets from interacting with armadillos to reduce the risk of disease transmission to animals and indirectly to humans.
If contact with an armadillo is unavoidable, wearing gloves is important. Practicing good hygiene, including thorough handwashing, after any potential contact with an armadillo or its burrows is important. To deter armadillos from yards, removing their food sources like insects and fallen fruit, and securing potential burrowing sites can be effective. Fencing can also be used to keep them out of specific areas.