Armadillos |
|
|
The word "armadillo" is of Spanish origin and refers to the armor-like covering of these animals. The skin is remarkably modified to provide a double-layered covering of horn and bone over most of the upper surface and sides of the animals, and some protection to the under parts and limbs. Young look like miniature adults when they're born, and within a few days their leathery skin hardens into armor. Under parts are covered with soft-haired skin. Hair sometimes projects from under the side plates.The nine-banded armadillo is about the size of a cat. Armadillos are not native to Florida, but are now common over most of the state. Armadillos like forested or semi-open habitats with loose textured soil that allows them to dig easily. They dig burrows for homes or to escape predators. They eat many insects, or other invertebrates, and some plants. They most often feed at night, and have very poor eyesight. |
|
This site designed and maintained by Prefect Pages Inc. |