Armadillos, with their distinctive armored shells, often spark curiosity. While typically shy and non-aggressive, they can bite if they perceive a threat or feel cornered. Understanding their natural behaviors provides context for why a bite might occur and helps mitigate potential risks.
Understanding Armadillo Behavior
Armadillos are primarily nocturnal, using their keen sense of smell to locate insects and other invertebrates for their diet. They spend much time foraging and digging burrows for shelter with their strong claws. Though their vision is poor, other senses help them navigate effectively.
Armadillos prefer to flee from perceived threats rather than confront them. Their primary defense is their tough, armored shell. For example, the three-banded armadillo rolls into a ball, while nine-banded armadillos may jump to startle a predator or retreat into a burrow. Biting is a rare, last-resort action, typically occurring when an armadillo feels trapped, is handled, or is surprised. Their small, peg-shaped teeth are designed for grinding insects, not for inflicting severe wounds on larger animals.
Potential Health Concerns
While armadillo bites are uncommon, they can pose health risks. The most recognized concern is the potential for transmitting Mycobacterium leprae, the bacteria responsible for leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease. Nine-banded armadillos, found in the southern United States, are among the few animals that naturally carry this bacteria. Although transmission to humans is rare, it can occur through direct, prolonged contact or, less commonly, via a bite. Studies show nearly identical Mycobacterium leprae strains in wild armadillos and human patients where contact is possible.
Beyond leprosy, any animal bite risks bacterial infection. Common oral bacteria like Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, and Pasteurella species can enter a wound. These infections can lead to symptoms like redness, swelling, pain, and pus around the bite site. While armadillos are not primary rabies carriers compared to animals like raccoons or skunks, rabid cases exist, and transmission through bites is possible. Their low body temperature makes them less common hosts for the rabies virus, but they are not immune.
Responding to an Armadillo Bite
Immediate first aid is important if an armadillo bite occurs. Thoroughly wash the wound with soap and water to remove bacteria and reduce infection risk. After cleaning, apply an antiseptic and cover the bite with a clean bandage or sterile gauze.
Seeking prompt medical attention is advisable, regardless of the bite’s apparent severity. A healthcare professional can assess the wound, determine infection risk, and decide if antibiotics, a tetanus shot booster, or other treatments are necessary. It is important to inform medical personnel about the animal involved, especially if it was an armadillo, due to the potential for Mycobacterium leprae exposure. Monitor the wound for signs of infection, such as increasing redness, swelling, pain, warmth, or pus, and report any developments to your doctor.
Avoiding Encounters
Minimizing contact with armadillos is the most effective way to prevent bites. Never attempt to approach, handle, or corner an armadillo, as they may bite if threatened. Always observe them from a safe distance.
To deter armadillos from your property, eliminate potential food sources like fallen fruit or outdoor pet food. Securing outdoor areas and removing brush piles or overgrown vegetation can also make your yard less appealing for burrowing. Fencing can be an effective barrier if installed correctly, extending at least 12-18 inches underground and being at least 24 inches high, angled outwards. If an armadillo is found in a yard, it is best to leave it undisturbed or contact animal control for assistance, especially if the animal appears injured or behaves unusually.