Species · GBIF taxon 2440816
Big Hairy Armadillo
Chaetophractus villosusAlso known as Peludo, Large Hairy Armadillo
Big hairy armadillos are robust, armor-plated diggers distinguished by the coarse, bristly hairs protruding from the joints in their protective shells. They are highly adaptable omnivores, actively foraging for insects, small vertebrates, and even carrion by bulldozing through loose soil with their powerful forelimbs. During cold winter months, they shift their activity from nocturnal to diurnal to maximize warmth.
NocturnalBurrowingMammal
Licensed referenceno rights reserved, uploaded by Diego Carús · cc0
- diet
- Omnivorous, feeding on insects, invertebrates, small vertebrates, carrion, and plant matter
- family
- Dasypodidae
- threats
- Hunting, vehicle collisions, domestic dogs, and agricultural persecution
- life Span
- 15 to 20 years in captivity; less in the wild
LC
Equipped with powerful digging claws; observe from a distance and do not attempt to handle.
Possesses exceptionally strong, sharp claws used for rapid digging that can cause deep lacerations if the animal is cornered or handled.
Never attempt to grab or pull an armadillo from its burrow; give it space to retreat.- Listen for rustling: They make significant noise while foraging through dry leaf litter and brush.
- Look for dig sites: Freshly excavated conical holes in the dirt indicate active foraging nearby.
- Keep dogs leashed: Domestic dogs frequently harass these animals, forcing them into defensive postures.