NINE BANDED ARMADILLO Photo Credit: U. S. Fish and Wildlife
Service SCIENTIFIC NAME: Dasypus novemcinctus OTHER NAMES:
Armadillo, Common Long-Nosed Armadillo DESCRIPTION: The nine-
banded armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus) cannot easily be
confused with any other North American wild mammal. The
armadillo’s body is covered with an armored carapace or shell.
The carapace is a double layer of horn and bone, segmented into
three main divisions: an anterior scapular shield covering the
shoulder; a posterior pelvic shield covering the hip region; and
a middle section comprised of a series of bands connected by
soft, infolded skin between the bands. The head and legs are
covered with thick scales, and the tail is encased in a series
of bony rings. Coloration of nine-banded armadillos is generally
grayish brown, with yellowish-white scales along the side of the
carapace. The armadillo has a long, pointed snout, small eyes,
and large, cylindrical ears. The armadillo’s pointed snout,
short, stout legs, and heavy claws are