Armadillos, distinct for their unique armor-like shells, are fascinating creatures often encountered in the southern United States. While their appearance might spark curiosity, many wonder about their potential to pose a threat to people and pets. This article explores armadillo behavior and associated health considerations, distinguishing between common perceptions and scientific understanding. By examining their natural habits and any risks, a clearer picture emerges of how to safely coexist with these armored mammals.
Understanding Armadillo Behavior
Armadillos are shy, solitary animals that prefer to avoid confrontation. The nine-banded armadillo, the sole species found in the U.S., is primarily nocturnal, foraging for food during the night. During cooler months, they may emerge during the day to bask in the sun. Their poor eyesight means they rely heavily on their keen sense of smell to locate insects and other invertebrates in the soil.
When threatened, an armadillo’s first instinct is to flee. If escape is not possible, some species, like the South American three-banded armadillo, can roll into a protective ball. The nine-banded armadillo, however, employs a startling jump reflex, leaping several feet into the air, which can inadvertently lead to contact. Despite their strong claws used for digging, they are not equipped for offensive attacks and rarely bite.
Armadillos are prolific diggers, creating burrows for shelter and foraging. A single armadillo might maintain multiple burrows, each up to 15 feet deep and 7-8 inches wide. These burrows provide refuge from predators and extreme weather, and they are found in areas with loose, porous soil. Their digging habits primarily focus on finding food, such as grubs, termites, and other insects.
Health Risks and Disease Transmission
While armadillos are not aggressive, they can carry pathogens that pose health risks to humans and pets. The most commonly discussed health concern is their ability to carry Mycobacterium leprae, the bacterium responsible for Hansen’s disease, also known as leprosy. The nine-banded armadillo is the only animal besides humans known to naturally host this bacterium.
Transmission to humans occurs through direct contact with an infected armadillo, such as handling the animal or consuming its meat. In some regions, up to 20% of armadillo populations may be infected. The risk of transmission to people is low, as most individuals are genetically unsusceptible to the disease. However, cases of armadillo-transmitted leprosy have been reported in the southern U.S. and parts of Brazil.
Armadillos can also carry other bacteria like Salmonella. This bacterium can be transmitted through contact with contaminated feces or by handling the animals without proper hygiene. Symptoms of salmonellosis can include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps. They can also carry parasites such as tapeworms, transmitted through contact with their feces. Though rare, armadillos can be infected with rabies, and any wild animal exhibiting unusual behavior should be avoided.
Safe Coexistence and Prevention
Maintaining a safe distance from armadillos is the effective way to prevent potential health risks and unwanted interactions. Observing them from afar is advisable, and direct contact, particularly handling or attempting to capture them, should be avoided. If contact with an armadillo is unavoidable, such as finding an injured animal, wearing gloves is recommended, and hands should be thoroughly washed afterward.
To deter armadillos from entering yards, several measures can help. Securing potential food sources by removing fallen fruits and controlling insect populations, especially grubs, can make a yard less appealing. Removing brush piles and other debris eliminates hiding spots and foraging areas. Installing an in-ground fence that extends at least 12-18 inches underground and is angled outward can prevent them from digging into a property.
If armadillos are present, filling in their burrows can discourage them from remaining on the property. Motion-activated lights or bright lights installed in the yard can deter them, as armadillos are primarily nocturnal. For persistent issues or if an injured or deceased armadillo is found, contacting local animal control or a wildlife professional is recommended for safe removal.