Armadillo Fun for Kids

Armadillos are fascinating animals that look like they’re wearing armor! These unique creatures have a hard shell on their backs and love to dig in the dirt. Armadillos are most active at night and are great at finding bugs to eat. Let’s learn more about these amazing A animals!

Watch an Armadillo in Action!

Watch this fun video to see an armadillo waddling around, sniffing for food, and showing how curious and active they are!

What is an Armadillo?

An armadillo is a small mammal with a strong shell on its back. This special armor helps protect it from predators.

• Armadillos are mammals, just like people
• They have four short legs and a long snout
• They love to dig with their sharp claws
• Some types can roll into a ball when they feel scared

Where Do Armadillos Live?

Armadillos live in warm places with lots of soft soil to dig in. They make burrows to sleep and stay cool.

• Mostly found in South America and the southern United States
• They live in forests, grasslands, and deserts
• They dig tunnels called burrows to hide and sleep in

What Do Armadillos Eat?

Armadillos are always hunting for tiny snacks under the ground! They eat bugs and other small creatures.

• They eat insects like ants and termites
• They also eat worms and small frogs
• Sometimes they eat fruits and plants

How Big is an Armadillo?

Armadillos come in different sizes, but most are about the size of a house cat!

• Most armadillos are 15–17 inches (38–43 cm) long
• Their tails can be 14–16 inches (36–41 cm) long
• They weigh about 8–17 pounds (3.6–7.7 kg)

What Sound Do Armadillos Make?

Armadillos are usually quiet, but they can make grunts, squeaks, and snuffling sounds when they’re scared or exploring.

Cool Armadillo Facts

Here are some awesome facts about armadillos that kids will love!

• Some armadillos can roll into a ball
• They have up to 100 tiny teeth
• Armadillos can hold their breath for about 6 minutes
• They can run fast—up to 30 miles per hour (48 km/h)
• They are good swimmers
• They use long claws to dig deep for food
• Their name means “little armored one” in Spanish

Printables and Coloring Fun

Have fun learning more about armadillos with these printable and online coloring activities!

• Download Armadillo Coloring Page (PDF)

Armadillos in the Eco-System

Armadillos are important for keeping nature balanced!

• They help control insect populations
• Their digging helps mix and aerate the soil
• Many animals use empty armadillo burrows for homes
• Most species are not endangered, but a few are at risk

Ask a Grown-up to Help You Learn More

Here are some great websites to learn even more about armadillos:

• National Geographic Kids: Armadillo
• Britannica Kids: Armadillo
• National Wildlife Federation: Armadillo

Fun Questions About Armadillos

Ways to Donate and Support Armadillos

You can help protect armadillos by learning about them, sharing what you learn, and supporting wildlife conservation efforts.

Visit the IUCN SSC Anteater, Sloth and Armadillo Specialist Group here to learn how to donate directly to armadillo conservation:

• IUCN SSC Anteater, Sloth and Armadillo Specialist Group – Support Page