The Armadillo’s New Mexico Presence
Armadillos are present in New Mexico. Their arrival is a recent westward extension of their range. The species found is the Nine-banded Armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus).
These mammals have expanded their range northward and eastward from southern habitats, beginning in Texas. Their spread into the United States started in the late 19th century. This expansion has been influenced by land use changes and milder winter temperatures, allowing them to survive in new areas.
Within New Mexico, armadillos are primarily observed in the southeastern region, near the Pecos River valley. This part of the state offers suitable conditions, including forests with mature trees, brush, woodlands, and areas adjacent to creeks and rivers. While their westward migration has been limited by arid desert regions, they have established populations where sufficient moisture and friable soils are available for their burrowing habits.
Identifying New Mexico Armadillos
The Nine-banded Armadillo is recognizable by its distinctive physical characteristics. They possess a bony shell (carapace) covering their head, body, and tail. This armor typically features seven to eleven movable bands across their midsection, allowing flexibility, despite their “nine-banded” name.
An adult armadillo measures about 2.5 feet from nose to tail tip and weighs approximately 12 pounds. They have a long, pointed snout, small eyes, and powerful claws on their front feet that are well-suited for digging. Unlike other armadillo species, the Nine-banded Armadillo cannot curl into a protective ball when threatened.
Armadillos are primarily nocturnal. During colder periods, they may forage during the day to absorb warmth. Their foraging involves extensive digging, leaving shallow holes, typically 1 to 3 inches deep and 3 to 5 inches wide, as they search for insects and other invertebrates using their keen sense of smell. When startled, they jump straight up to 3 or 4 feet in the air.
Living Alongside Armadillos
For residents, encountering an armadillo requires minimal intervention. Observe these animals from a distance and avoid approaching or handling them. Armadillos create numerous burrows for shelter, raising young, and escaping predators or extreme temperatures.
Their extensive digging in search of food can occasionally lead to minor damage in yards, gardens, or around foundations. To deter them, residents can consider installing fences that extend at least 2 feet underground or clearing dense brush and other cover that armadillos might find appealing. Securing trash bins also helps remove potential food sources.
Armadillos are known carriers of the bacterium that causes leprosy (Hansen’s disease), but the risk of transmission to humans is low. Direct, prolonged contact with an infected armadillo is generally necessary for transmission, and reported cases of human infection from armadillos are uncommon. Maintaining a respectful distance is a simple and effective approach to coexisting with these unique creatures.