Armadillo Facts
This species is commonly found in Texas and in the Southern states to the east of Texas. Although not native to Florida, the armadillo was first introduced to coastal regions in the 1920s. The Texas population also moved into the Florida panhandle and soon both populations came together, now covering much of the state.
Armadillo Damage
While armadillos are beneficial because they eat pesky insects, all their digging can cause problems. Burrows built under patios and driveways may cause structural damage. Small holes made from armadillos searching for food ruin flowerbeds, gardens, and landscaping.
Armadillo Identification
The nine-banded or long-nosed armadillo is a funny looking mammal that has a tough shell with knobby scales covering most of its body. This critter gets its name from the nine sections in its armor, allowing it to flex and bend. The nine-banded armadillo is about the size of a house cat and weigh between 8 and 17 pounds.
Armadillo Diet & Habitat
Armadillos eat insects, insect larvae, earthworms, snails, and scorpions. They feed at night and spend the day hiding in burrows.
These critters live in wooded areas and prefer sandy dirt grounds or clay soil that allows them to dig easily. Armadillos will dig multiple burrows to live in within their territory. Some burrows are as deep as 15 feet. Each burrow has many entrances that are hidden underneath brush, stumps, and piles of rocks.
Armadillos mate in July and give birth to a litter of four identical same-sex young in February or March. This happens because all the young develop from a single egg. Females give birth to only one litter a year. Armadillos dedicate a single burrow to raise their young. Armadillos have poor eyesight and hearing, but can move swiftly and are good swimmers. They can even walk underwater on the bed of a stream to cross to the other side.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep armadillos away?
Taking the following measures will help you control the armadillo population on your property.
First, eliminate food sources by reducing the amount of water and fertilizer given to your lawn and gardens. Rich, moist soil brings earthworms and insect larvae to the surface. Such insects serve as great sources of food for armadillos.
Protect gardens and ornamental trees by installing fences. Fencing should be at least two feet high with an additional 18 inches buried underground.
What are the benefits of professional armadillo pest control?
A pest management professional has the education, equipment, and skills necessary to effectively address an armadillo problem. Finding and treating the armadillos can be challenging, especially if they are loose in your yard. A pest management professional can use their expertise to identify the pest problem and determine the best possible solution to resolve the armadillo nuisance.
Should an armadillo population invade your property, contact us to professionally remove the pests.