Yes, armadillos do live in Florida. The nine-banded armadillo, Dasypus novemcinctus, is a common sight throughout much of the state. While not originally native to Florida, they have become naturalized and are well-established residents.
Armadillos in Florida and Their Journey
Nine-banded armadillos were not originally present in Florida’s ecosystem, first appearing in the 1920s through human introduction. Some populations resulted from animals escaping a small zoo in 1924 and a traveling circus in 1936.
Originating in South America, the species expanded its range into the United States from Mexico in the mid-1800s. Following these introductions, armadillos spread rapidly across Florida. By the early 1950s, they were widely distributed throughout most of the state. They are now common in uplands across Florida, though less prevalent in areas like the Florida Keys, the Everglades, and the Big Cypress Swamp.
Key Characteristics and Behavior
The nine-banded armadillo is identifiable by its distinctive armored shell, made of bony plates covering its back, sides, legs, tail, and head. This shell has nine flexible bands in its midsection, allowing movement. Adults measure 15 to 17 inches long (excluding tail) and weigh 8 to 17 pounds. Their undersides are soft and covered with sparse hair.
Armadillos are nocturnal, spending their days in burrows to avoid predators and heat. Their poor eyesight is compensated by a keen sense of smell, which they use to locate food. As insectivores, their diet includes insects like beetles, grubs, and ants, along with other invertebrates such as earthworms and spiders. They are exceptional diggers, using strong claws to excavate shallow holes for foraging and to create extensive burrows up to 7 feet deep and 20 feet long for shelter.
Coexisting with Armadillos
Armadillos’ digging habits can damage lawns and gardens. They create shallow holes (one to three inches deep, three to five inches wide) while searching for food. They may also dig burrows under shrubs, trees, or concrete patios, potentially undermining foundations. To deter armadillos humanely, reduce their food sources by minimizing watering and fertilization, as moist soil attracts earthworms and insect larvae.
Fencing can exclude armadillos from small areas if it is at least 2 feet high with an 18-inch buried apron. Removing fallen fruit also helps, as armadillos are attracted to fermenting fruit. Avoiding direct contact with armadillos is advisable, as they are known to carry diseases like leprosy. Though human transmission risk is low and leprosy is rare in the U.S., Florida has seen an uptick in cases, with armadillos being a known reservoir for Mycobacterium leprae. Scientists recommend avoiding handling armadillos and wearing gloves when working in areas they inhabit, especially if disturbing soil.