Armadillos are distinctive mammals, known for their bony, armor-like plates. Most of the approximately 20 species are native to Central and South America. The nine-banded armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus) is the only species regularly found in the United States, and it has been gradually expanding its territory across North America.
Armadillos Are Indeed in Kentucky
Nine-banded armadillos have established populations in Kentucky. Sightings began in the mid-1980s, initially infrequent, but their presence has become increasingly common since the early 2000s.
They are most commonly found in western and southern Kentucky. Their range has expanded eastward, with confirmed sightings in central and eastern regions, including Fayette County.
How Armadillos Expanded Their Range
The expansion of armadillos into Kentucky is part of a broader northward migration across the United States. Originating in Texas and other southern states, these animals began their northward movement in the late 19th century. This dispersal has been very rapid, with some estimates suggesting a rate nearly ten times faster than the average for mammals.
Several factors contribute to this range expansion, including the armadillos’ adaptability to various habitats. They face few natural predators in new regions, and their high reproductive rate, which often involves giving birth to identical quadruplets, supports population growth. Climate change, leading to milder winters, has also created more suitable northern habitats for these animals, which have low body fat and struggle with cold temperatures. Human-altered landscapes, such as farms and highways, may also facilitate their movement.
Understanding Armadillos in Kentucky
Armadillos in Kentucky are solitary and primarily nocturnal, foraging for food during the night. Their diet consists mainly of insects, grubs, and other invertebrates found in the soil. They use powerful claws to dig extensively, creating shallow holes as they root for prey and excavating deeper burrows for shelter.
They possess poor eyesight but compensate with a highly developed sense of smell to locate food underground. They are not aggressive towards humans and will flee or attempt to dig into the ground when startled. If encountered, it is advisable to observe armadillos from a distance and avoid handling them. This caution is important because nine-banded armadillos are one of the few vertebrate species known to carry the bacteria that can cause leprosy.