The Six Banded Armadillo is widely distributed in South America. It is found throughout Bolivia, Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay and Surinam. They inhabit savannas, scrublands and deciduous forests. These mammals can grow to a length of 40 – 50 cm (16 – 20 in.) and weigh from 3.2 – 6.5 kg (7 – 13 lb). Their shell is made of bony plates called scutes covered with horny skin. They are the second largest of the armadillo species.

They are omnivores who eat a wide variety of insects, ants and plant material. This armadillo is one of the few creatures who eat fire ants.

They dig burrows using their strong forelimbs and claws. Unlike other armadillos the six banded will flee from danger and bites if handled.

Fun Facts

The word Armadillo comes from the Spanish meaning “little armored one”. The Glypdodon, a prehistoric armadillo was as big as a Volkswagon Beetle.