Armadillos: the Prehistoric Mammals, Living Fossils
The armadillo is a mammal that has existed for more than 50 million years. Physically, the animal displays it’s age in it’s prehistoric appearance. The armadillo in some ways resembles a small rodent however, it has an armored shell that distinguishes it from other animals. There are around 20 different species of armadillo, each with it’s own unique characteristics. While it is commonly thought that armadillos possess the ability to roll into a ball this ability is limited to certain species (most notably the South American variety).
It’s easy to understand why the armadillo has existed for so long. It’s armored body provides ample protection from predators. In addition to having armor as a defense mechanism the armadillo has the ability to jump considerably high allowing it to escape predators. The various defense mechanisms of the armadillo coupled with the fact that it has relatively few natural predators are major factors that allowed it to survive for such a long period of time.
Each species of armadillo has it’s own unique diet. A shared characteristic among the various species of armadillo is that they eat mostly insects and other small invertebrates. It’s no surprise that the armadillo also eats ants as it is closely related to the anteater. Besides insects the armadillo will at times eat fruits and berries.
The armadillo’s habitat ranges from North to South America and also Latin America. The armadillo prefers warm climates and is often found near small deposits of water. These watery areas are useful because the armadillo likes to burrow and the ground is usually much softer near a body of water. The armadillo is also a fairly strong swimmer so living near waterways gives the armadillo an escape route from predators.
Armadillos are fascinating creatures. They have survived longer than many other animals on the planet. Their armored appearance and distinct behaviors make them one of the world’s most unique mammals.
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