I don’t know what I expected but this little thing was certainly not it. I noticed Ellen shooting so I caught up to her.
He was scurrying around on a trail between two marshes completely unaware of anything around him…except maybe a worm or insect.
This is a Nine Banded Armadillo. Originally a South American resident they have moved up here and now are common, even if you don’t see them. Warm and wet is what they need, and that’s exactly what we have.
Nine-banded armadillos generally weigh from 5.5 – 14.5 lbs ( 2.5–6.5 kg). They cannot see very well and get so engrossed in digging you can walk right up to one.
When frightened….they squeal and jump high. I have seen that one up close and personal. It will definitely get you attention.
Now a real interesting factoid! An Armadillo can cross a river by (wait for it) …. holding their breath up to 6 minutes and walk across the bottom.
They live in burrows and can dig a deep hole in seconds. Since a Nine Banded can’t roll themselves into a ball this is how they escape predators.
Nearby was an adult, and since this one was so small (baby bunny size) I assume that was the mother. The adult never noticed me either. A burrow was probably nearby.
Wow.That is a cool find, Ted, and wonderful photos. I have seen an armadillo only once, when I was visiting in Augusta, Georgia a few years ago.
Thank you. One of those things, sometimes we see them, other times can go months with none.
I have almost tripped over these blind things. They really are clueless.
LOL, It’s easy to.
Who knew they could walk under water…
I know !!
Amazing animal, glad you Ellen ran into one.
I hope the little guy survives. Walking under water sounds rather useful for this species. Nice photos Ted!
Somehow they manage to survive, no idea how though. Thanks.
This little creature in incredibly cute. You got some nice photos. I shared a link here on Twitter 🙂
Thanks, another series soon, since I found him again later same day 🙂
You are so lucky to have these creatures. The baby has a soft shell and on his own already. I wish that he will be healthy, meet his mate, raise young ones and live a long happy life.
Some how they have survived forever. They hardly see, can’t hear well, and typically have no idea what is happening around them.