Wildlife Comedian: The Armadillo

by Christopher Harper

Very few of our nocturnal visitors better represent Florida than the armadillo! Snakes, alligators, raccoon s and birds are all images of Florida, but the armadillo seems to be the most prominent. I live in the heavily forested region of North Florida, and the armadillo (a family of them) are an ever-present visitor to our house.

Several weeks ago I was out hiking at St Marks Wild Life Refuge when some rustling sounds caught my attention. Armadillos, which have large leathery shells, were busily rooting for grubs underneath the underbrush.  It was about 10 feet away, but the armadillo couldn't have cared less. Other than rising up to look at me briefly, he continued his foraging for another half-hour. Using their cone-shaped snouts to root out insects, they suddenly dig vigorously using powerful claws to unearth their prey. Their antics and easy going nature has entertained outdoorsmen for years, making them truly enjoyable to watch!

 Armadillos are found throughout Florida, from city backyards, county parks, to dark wooded floodplains. They are at home in most wildlife ecosystems, but their dens, which they burrow into muddy banks along streams or wetlands, are where they feel safe. The burrows have protection from a number of different predators and where, after mating, the female has 2-5 young. Crossing an armadillo while hiking is not an unusual sight, but watching their antics can provide pleasant entertainment while enjoying Florida’s outdoors!!