Rainforest Animals - Giant Armadillo

Rainforest Animals - Giant Armadillo

Name:

Giant Armadillo

Scientific Name:

Priodontes maximus

Status:

Endangered

Scientific Classification:

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Mammalia

Order: Cingulata

Family: Dasypodidae

Genus: Priodontes

Species: P. maximus

General Information:

The giant armadillo is a the largest of all armadillos. It is a striking creature characterized by its armor-like skin. They are powerful diggers, a quality put to good use when they seek food, dig burrows, and protect themselves from predators. Armadillos are nocturnal, active during the night while preferring rest during the day. It is currently listed as an "Endangered Species" by the IUCN, with 50% of its population having been lost within the past decade. The main threats to its survival are habitat destruction and hunting for food. A single giant armadillo may feed an entire family for several days.

Physical Description:

Most armadillos weigh around 40 - 70 lbs, although some exceptional specimens may reach weights of over 100 lbs. It is usually 30 - 40 inches long and has a tail that is around 20 inches long. The giant armadillo's "armor" is composed of 11 - 13 flexible bands that form a shell, and 3 - 4 bands on the back of its neck. Its body is covered with sparse hairs, and is generally brownish in color. It has large claws on its forefeet for digging.

Diet:

Giant armadillos feed on a variety of small prey, including ants, spiders, worms, and even carrion and snakes. It is particularly partial to termites.

Habitat:

It occurs in grasslands, brushlands, forests, and woodland areas. It likes areas near water, where it often burrows. The giant armadillo's range encompasses portions of South America east of the Andes Mountains, from central Venezuela south to northeastern Argentina.

Reproduction:

Gestation for armadillos generally lasts 4 months, after which time 1 - 2 young are born. The young are weaned at about 4 - 6 weeks. armadillos are sexually mature at 9 - 12 months of age. Even when first born they have tough, leathery skin.