Nine Banded Armadillo
(Dasypus novemcinctus)
Interview with Share Bond
Positives of armadillos as pets?
My armadillo uses a litter box, and is quiet and sweet. They don't bite and they keep insects out of the house if allowed to roam.
Negatives of armadillos as pets?
Armadillos are diggers so will tear up your potted plants and carpeting. They are a little difficult to pick up and aren't a cuddly animal. You have to watch out for their feet which can pinch or dig into your skin.
Anecdotes/stories about your armadillo pet?
Phylis Dillo is very determined and not afraid of other animals. She lives with an opossum and skunks and even though free-roaming, get along great. She stole the skunks blankies and eventually kicked them out of their den. In the wild they oftentimes den together. She is at my heels at dinnertime just like the rest of the crew and sometimes sticks her long tongue up my nose.
Do they have scent glands or an offensive smell?
No odor at all.
What is their average lifespan?
In captivity, much longer than in the wild. About 10 years.
Do they enjoy interaction?
She doesn't seem to mind, but I think it's just food oriented.
What is their general personality, disposition, and attitude?
They aren't afraid of anything, basically just interested in food, shelter and warmth.
Are they sweet and petable, or mischievious and playful?
Sweet and petable. They get into mischief. Not playful.
How destructive are they for an average household?
If you have carpeting, forget it. They will dig it up looking for insects.
Do they climb or tear up furniture?
Not good climbers, but can get up a small step if necessary. Will tear up furniture if you put it up on the furniture.
Are their any problems associated with their claws?
When given the chance to dig, their claws will stay dulled.
How messy are their droppings?
Not messy at all. They will use a litter box.
Can they be litter box trained?
Yes
Can they be trained?
Just about any animal can be trained with the right "incentives".
How are they with other pets, larger and smaller?
Fine
What size cage do they need?
I think they do fine free-roaming the "carpetless" house or room or a backyard that is escape-proof. I would give them a large cage (minimum of 4 x 4 x 4) but you would have to let it out for interaction and exercise.
What do you feed them?
Fruits and vegetables (finely chopped), crickets (frozen), mealworms, ants (they'll find them), little raw meat occasionally (preferably carrion), softened monkey chow
What vaccinations/vet care do they require?
None that I know of. Occasional vet check up.
At what age would it be best to get one?
When a baby, although I got mine as an adult and she seemed to transfer nicely.
Other Consideration for owners of armadillos?
Armadillos aren't practical pets. They also don't do well in the cold. If outdoors, they must have a cage buried three feet deep so they can burrow and not get out.
What kind of person should own these animals?
Native American wildlife educators, zoos.
