the giant armadillo is the largest living species of armadillo, with 11 to 13 hinged bands protecting the body and a further three or four on the neck. its body is dark brown in color, with a lighter, yellowish band running along the sides, and a pale, yellow-white head. these armadillos have around 80 to 100 teeth, which is more than any other terrestrial mammal. the teeth are all similar in appearance, being reduced premolars and molars, grow constantly throughout life, and lack enamel. they also possess extremely long front claws, including a sickle-shaped third claw up to in length, which are proportionately the largest of any living mammal. the tail is covered in small rounded scales and does not have the heavy bony scutes that cover the upper body and top of the head. the animal is almost entirely hairless, with just a few beige colored hairs protruding between the scutes.