 Explore our wide variety of animal facts and learn some fun trivia about our friends in the animal kingdom.
 Fun Armadillo Facts for Kids
Check out our range of fun armadillo facts for kids. Learn what they look like, where they live, what they eat and much more. Read on for all kinds of interesting information about armadillos! | | |
- Armadillos are unique mammals native to North and South America.
- The name armadillo means “little armored ones” in Spanish.
- Armadillos are famous for their armoured shell. The outer layer is made from keratin, a protein also found in human fingernails.
- Some species roll up into a ball when threatened, while others jump up to 1.2 m (4 ft) straight into the air!
- The pink fairy armadillo is the smallest species, growing to around 14 cm (5.5 in) in length and weighing around 85 g (3 oz).
- The giant armadillo is the largest species, growing to as long as 150 cm (59 in) and weighing up to 54 kg (119 lb).
- Other species of armadillo include the nine-banded armadillo, Brazilian three-banded armadillo, southern three-banded armadillo, screaming hairy armadillo (what a name!) and more.
- Armadillos typically feed on insects such as termites, ants and grubs. They have an excellent sense of smell, sharp claws and love to dig!
- Despite their small legs, armadillos can move relatively quickly. They tend to favour escaping trouble in this manner rather than relying on their shell.
- Traditional instruments named “charango” are made from Armadillo shells.
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