The three bands that cover the back allow it enough flexibility to fit its tail and head together, allowing it to protect its underbelly, limbs, eyes, nose and ears from predators.

The shell covering its body is armored and the outer layer is made out of keratin, the same component that builds human fingernails.

Contrary to popular belief, only the three-banded armadillo can roll itself into a ball, encasing itself in its shell.
 

Southern Three-banded Armadillo

Tolypeutes matacus

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION

The southern three-banded armadillo is typically a yellow or brownish color and is a smaller species than many other species of armadillos, ranging in size from about 9 to 13 inches when full grown, weighing from 2.2-3.5lbs. They have a long, sticky, straw-like pink tongue that allows them to gather up their food. They have very poor eyesight, and utilize their keen sense of smell to hunt.

HABITAT

Found in South America throughout Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Bolivia. They are found in grassy or marshy areas between scattered forestland. They do not appear to dig their own burrows, but instead use abandoned anteater burrows as shelter. They sleep for most of the day, up to 16 hours, and forage for food in the early morning and evening.

DIET IN THE WILD

Southern three-banded armadillos eat many different species of insects, typically ants and termites during the dry season. In the wet season they eat a significant amount of fruit. In captivity, they also eat foods such as fruits and vegetables.

BEHAVIOR

When threatened, three-banded armadillos roll themselves up into ball, leaving only a small opening between the shell edges. If the animal is prodded through the opening, it quickly snaps fully shut like a steel trap. Three-banded armadillos are primarily solitary, although groups of up to 12 have been observed sharing the same den site during cold spells.

STATUS IN THE WILD / CONSERVATION EFFORTS

Southern three-banded armadillos are designated as near threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources. Their numbers are suffering due to overhunting.

LIFE SPAN

Average lifespan in captivity is 12 to 15 years. Some individuals have lived 20 years or more in captivity.