Armadillos, with their unique armored shells and intriguing behaviors, often spark curiosity and fascination. These shy, nocturnal creatures, native to the Americas, might seem like unusual yet captivating pets. But before you envision an armadillo roaming in your backyard, it’s crucial to delve into the realities of armadillo ownership. Are these scaled mammals suitable companions, or are they better left admired in the wild? This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about keeping armadillos as pets, covering legality, ethical considerations, care requirements, and much more, to help you make an informed decision.
Are Armadillos Suitable Pets? Understanding the Commitments
While the idea of owning an armadillo might be tempting, it’s essential to understand that they are not domesticated animals like cats or dogs. Bringing an armadillo into your home is a significant commitment that requires careful consideration of several factors.
Legality: Are Armadillos Legal to Own?
The first hurdle in armadillo ownership is legality. Laws regarding exotic pets, including armadillos, vary significantly depending on your location. In many areas, owning an armadillo may be restricted or outright prohibited due to concerns about wildlife conservation, public safety, and the potential for disease transmission.
Before even considering getting an armadillo, you must rigorously check your local, state, and federal regulations. Contact your local animal control, wildlife agencies, and department of agriculture to determine the specific laws in your area. Ignoring these regulations can lead to hefty fines, confiscation of the animal, and even legal repercussions.
Ethical Considerations: Can You Provide the Right Environment?
Beyond legality, ethical considerations are paramount. Armadillos have complex needs rooted in their wild nature. Confining them to a domestic setting can be challenging and potentially detrimental to their well-being if their specific requirements are not met.
Consider the following ethical questions:
- Space Requirements: Armadillos are natural roamers. In the wild, they can cover vast territories, sometimes up to eight acres. Can you provide an enclosure that adequately mimics this need for space and exploration?
- Nocturnal Lifestyle: Armadillos are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. Are you prepared to adapt to their nighttime activity and provide a suitable environment for them to thrive during these hours without disrupting your household?
- Specialized Diet: Armadillos have a specialized diet consisting mainly of insects and invertebrates. Can you consistently provide a diet that meets their nutritional needs in captivity?
- Veterinary Care: Finding veterinarians experienced in treating exotic animals like armadillos can be difficult and expensive. Are you prepared for the potential challenges of finding and affording specialized veterinary care?
- Solitary Nature: Armadillos are generally solitary animals, except during mating season. Keeping multiple armadillos together in captivity can lead to stress and aggression. Are you prepared to house an armadillo alone?
If you cannot confidently answer “yes” to these questions, owning an armadillo may not be ethically responsible.
Things to Consider: Lifestyle Adjustments for Armadillo Ownership
Owning an armadillo requires significant lifestyle adjustments. These are not low-maintenance pets, and their unique needs demand dedication and resources.
Key lifestyle considerations include:
- Nocturnal Activity: Be prepared for an animal that is active primarily at night. Their digging, foraging, and general activity can be disruptive if housed indoors and can affect sleep patterns if kept in or near bedrooms.
- Outdoor Housing Needs: Due to their odor and need for space and natural behaviors like digging, armadillos are best suited for outdoor enclosures, especially in warmer climates. This requires a secure, predator-proof outdoor space.
- Climate Sensitivity: Armadillos are sensitive to cold temperatures and can suffer from frostbite. If you live in a cold climate, you’ll need to provide heated outdoor shelters or bring them indoors during winter, which presents its own set of challenges due to their destructive digging habits.
- Long-Term Commitment: Armadillos can live for up to 30 years in captivity. This is a long-term commitment, and you need to be prepared to provide for their needs throughout their lifespan.
An adult three-banded armadillo demonstrating its ability to roll into a ball, a unique defense mechanism among armadillo species.
Pet Armadillo Behavior and Temperament: Understanding Their Wild Instincts
Understanding the natural behavior and temperament of armadillos is crucial for responsible pet ownership. While armadillos raised in captivity from a young age can become relatively tame, their wild instincts remain.
Solitary Nature: They Prefer to Live Alone
Armadillos are inherently solitary creatures. In their natural habitat, they primarily interact with others for mating purposes and raising their young. Housing multiple armadillos together can lead to territorial disputes, stress, and even aggression. It’s generally recommended to keep armadillos individually.
Nocturnal Habits: Embrace the Nightlife
As nocturnal animals, armadillos are most active during the night. This is when they forage for food, explore their surroundings, and engage in their natural behaviors. Expect your pet armadillo to be most energetic when you are winding down for the day.
Digging and Burrowing: Natural Excavators
Digging and burrowing are fundamental behaviors for armadillos. They use their strong claws to excavate burrows for shelter, foraging, and nesting. This natural digging instinct can be destructive if not properly managed in a captive environment. They require substrates that allow for burrowing and secure enclosures to prevent escapes.
Potential for Affection: Tame but Not Cuddly
Armadillos raised by humans from a young age can become accustomed to human interaction and may even exhibit affectionate behaviors. Some armadillos enjoy being petted or sitting on laps, especially if handled gently and consistently from a young age. However, they are not cuddly pets like domestic cats or dogs. Their tolerance for handling varies, and it’s essential to respect their boundaries.
Defensive Mechanisms: The Armored Ball is a Sign of Stress
Armadillos are famous for their armored shells, which serve as a primary defense mechanism against predators. The three-banded armadillo is particularly known for its ability to roll completely into a ball when threatened. While this behavior might seem endearing, it’s actually a sign of stress and fear. Forcing an armadillo to roll into a ball is detrimental to its well-being and should be avoided.
Housing: Creating the Ideal Habitat for Pet Armadillos
Replicating an armadillo’s natural habitat in captivity is essential for their physical and psychological well-being. Housing requires careful planning and consideration of their specific needs.
Outdoor vs. Indoor Housing: Outdoor is Generally Preferred
Outdoor enclosures are generally more suitable for armadillos due to their odor, space requirements, and natural digging behaviors. The strong, musky odor that armadillos naturally produce can become overwhelming indoors. Additionally, providing adequate space for roaming and digging is easier in an outdoor setting.
However, in colder climates, indoor housing or heated shelters within outdoor enclosures may be necessary during winter months to protect them from frostbite.
Enclosure Size and Security: Spacious and Predator-Proof
Armadillos need spacious enclosures to allow for natural movement and exploration. While replicating eight acres of roaming space is impossible, the enclosure should be as large as practically feasible. A minimum enclosure size of at least 100 square feet is recommended for a single armadillo, with larger being always better.
Security is paramount. Armadillos are strong diggers and escape artists. Enclosures must be constructed with:
- Solid walls: Made of durable materials like concrete, heavy-gauge wire mesh, or wood, extending at least 2-3 feet below ground level to prevent digging escapes.
- Secure top: A covered enclosure is crucial to protect the armadillo from predators (like dogs, coyotes, or birds of prey) and prevent them from climbing out.
- Smooth interior walls: To prevent injury from climbing and potentially falling.
Temperature and Climate Control: Warmth is Essential
Armadillos are adapted to warm climates and are sensitive to cold temperatures. Their environment should consistently remain above 71 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius).
- Heated shelters: In colder climates, provide insulated and heated shelters within the enclosure, such as dog houses with heating pads or heat lamps, to protect them from cold and frostbite.
- Shade and ventilation: In warmer climates, ensure ample shade and ventilation to prevent overheating, especially during hot summer months. Access to shade can be provided by trees, shrubs, or artificial structures.
Substrate and Burrowing Materials: Embrace the Earth
Providing a substrate that allows for natural burrowing behavior is crucial. Suitable substrates include:
- Soil: Natural soil is ideal, allowing for digging and burrowing. Ensure it is free of pesticides and contaminants.
- Mulch and wood chips: Large mounds of mulch or a mixture of mulch and wood chips can also provide burrowing opportunities.
- Sand: Sand can be mixed with soil or mulch to create a more diggable substrate.
Avoid using gravel, rocks, or hard-packed surfaces that prevent burrowing.
Water and Enrichment: Essential Additions
- Water: Provide constant access to fresh, clean, non-chlorinated water. Shallow bowls or dishes are suitable. A small wading pool can be a welcome addition, especially in warmer weather.
- Enrichment: Enrichment is essential to stimulate armadillos mentally and physically and prevent boredom. Provide:
- Logs and branches: For climbing and exploration.
- Rocks and tunnels: To mimic natural environments and provide hiding places.
- Scatter feeding: Scatter insects or food items around the enclosure to encourage foraging behavior.
- Novel scents and objects: Introduce new scents (like herbs or spices) and safe, durable toys periodically to keep them mentally stimulated.
A screaming hairy armadillo, known for its distinctive vocalizations when handled or threatened, representing a less frequently kept armadillo pet species.
What Do Armadillos Eat & Drink? Meeting Their Nutritional Needs
Providing a proper diet is critical for the health and longevity of pet armadillos. Their nutritional needs differ significantly from common domestic pets.
Natural Diet in the Wild: Insectivores and Opportunistic Feeders
In the wild, armadillos are primarily insectivores, meaning their diet consists mainly of insects. They also consume other invertebrates like earthworms, grubs, and larvae. They are opportunistic feeders and may also eat:
- Fruits: Soft fruits like berries and melons.
- Eggs: Bird and reptile eggs.
- Small vertebrates: Occasionally small amphibians, reptiles, or rodents.
- Vegetables: Sweet potatoes and other soft vegetables.
Feeding Pet Armadillos: A Balanced Insect-Based Diet
In captivity, the diet should primarily consist of insects. Suitable food items include:
- Live insects: Crickets, mealworms, kingworms, earthworms, and roaches are excellent staples. Insects should be gut-loaded (fed nutritious food before being offered to the armadillo) and dusted with calcium and vitamin D3 supplements, especially for young and growing armadillos.
- Commercial insectivore diets: Some commercially available insectivore diets can supplement the insect portion of their diet. Choose high-quality brands specifically formulated for insect-eating animals.
- Limited supplemental foods: Offer small amounts of soft fruits (berries, melon), cooked sweet potatoes, and cooked eggs as occasional treats, but these should not form the bulk of their diet.
Avoid:
- Dog or cat food: These are not nutritionally appropriate for armadillos and can lead to health problems.
- Large amounts of fruits and sugary foods: Can cause digestive issues and obesity.
- Dairy products: Armadillos are lactose intolerant.
Consult with an exotic animal veterinarian to develop a specific diet plan tailored to your armadillo’s age, species, and health status.
Water Requirements: Always Hydrated
Fresh, clean, non-chlorinated water should be available at all times. Water bowls should be cleaned and refilled daily. Multiple water sources within the enclosure are beneficial, especially in warmer weather.
Common Health Problems: Awareness and Prevention
While armadillos are generally hardy animals, they are susceptible to certain health issues, and disease transmission is a significant concern.
Zoonotic Diseases: Leprosy and Rabies Risks
Armadillos are known carriers of Mycobacterium leprae, the bacteria that causes leprosy in humans. While the risk of transmission is relatively low, it is a valid concern, especially for immunocompromised individuals. Wear gloves when handling armadillos or their enclosure and practice thorough handwashing afterward.
Armadillos can also transmit rabies. Rabies is a fatal viral disease, and any bite from an armadillo should be taken seriously. Seek immediate medical attention and report the bite to animal control or public health authorities. Vaccination against rabies is not typically recommended for pet armadillos due to limited efficacy and potential side effects.
Common Health Issues: Frostbite and Nutritional Deficiencies
- Frostbite: As mentioned earlier, armadillos are prone to frostbite due to their slow metabolism and sensitivity to cold. Ensure adequate warmth and shelter during cold weather to prevent frostbite, especially on their ears, tails, and feet.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Improper diet can lead to various nutritional deficiencies, including calcium deficiency, vitamin deficiencies, and metabolic bone disease. Feeding a balanced, insect-based diet and supplementing with vitamins and minerals as recommended by a veterinarian is crucial.
- Parasites: Armadillos can be susceptible to internal and external parasites. Regular fecal exams and preventative parasite treatments as advised by a veterinarian are essential.
- Trauma: Injuries from falls, enclosure accidents, or predator attacks can occur. Ensure a safe and secure enclosure to minimize the risk of trauma.
Regular veterinary checkups with an exotic animal veterinarian are crucial for early detection and prevention of health problems.
Exercise: Meeting Their Activity Needs
In a properly designed enclosure, armadillos will generally meet their exercise needs naturally through foraging, digging, and exploring.
Natural Exercise in Enclosure: Foraging and Digging
Providing a spacious enclosure with opportunities for digging, burrowing, and foraging is the best way to ensure adequate exercise. Scatter feeding insects or hiding food items encourages natural foraging behaviors and keeps them active.
Exercise Wheels and Toys: Optional Enrichment
While not strictly necessary, exercise wheels designed for small animals (ferret or chinchilla wheels) can provide additional exercise opportunities, especially if space is limited. Ensure the wheel is solid and safe for their claws.
Durable toys like hard balls or puzzle feeders can also provide mental and physical stimulation.
Grooming: Minimal Maintenance Required
Armadillos are naturally clean animals and require minimal grooming from their owners.
Minimal Grooming Needs: Nature Takes Care of It
Armadillos do not require bathing or brushing. Their armored shells are made of keratin, like human fingernails, and naturally shed dirt and debris. Over-bathing can dry out their skin and disrupt their natural oils.
However, regularly inspect their shells for any signs of injury, infection, or abnormal shedding. Consult a veterinarian if you notice any changes in the appearance of their shells, such as discoloration, peeling, or lesions.
Training: Limited Trainability
Armadillos are not known for their intelligence or trainability in the same way as dogs or parrots.
Limited Trainability: Wild Instincts Prevail
Do not expect to train an armadillo to perform tricks or commands. Their wild instincts and solitary nature make them less amenable to traditional training methods.
Importance of Early Handling: Building Trust
Early and consistent gentle handling from a young age can help socialize an armadillo and make it more comfortable with human interaction. This can facilitate basic handling for health checks or enclosure maintenance. Positive reinforcement, such as offering treats during handling sessions, can help build trust.
Purchasing Your Pet Armadillo: Finding a Reputable Source
If, after careful consideration, you decide to acquire an armadillo, sourcing it from a reputable source is crucial.
Reputable Breeders: Prioritize Captive-Bred Animals
Wild-caught armadillos are highly discouraged. They are often stressed, may carry diseases, and are less likely to adapt to captivity. Seek out captive-bred armadillos from reputable breeders who prioritize animal welfare and health.
- Research breeders: Look for breeders who specialize in exotic animals and have experience with armadillos.
- Inquire about health and temperament: Ask about the armadillo’s health history, temperament, and socialization.
- Visit the facility: If possible, visit the breeder’s facility to assess the living conditions and ensure the animals are well-cared for.
- Verify legality: Ensure the breeder has the necessary permits and licenses to legally sell armadillos in your area.
Cost of an Armadillo: A Significant Investment
Expect to pay a significant amount for a captive-bred, hand-tamed baby armadillo. Prices can range from $2,000 to $3,000 or more. This cost reflects the specialized care and breeding efforts involved in producing pet armadillos. Remember that the purchase price is just the initial cost; ongoing care expenses, including food, housing, veterinary care, and enrichment, will be substantial.
Alternatives to Armadillos as Pets: Exploring Other Options
If the challenges of armadillo ownership seem overwhelming, consider exploring alternative exotic pets that might be a better fit for your lifestyle and capabilities.
Similar pets to consider:
- Hedgehogs: Smaller, more manageable exotic pets with relatively simpler care requirements.
- Sugar gliders: Social and playful marsupials that can be affectionate companions, but require specialized care and social housing.
- Ferrets: Curious and energetic animals that can be rewarding pets for experienced owners, but require specific housing and socialization.
Research any potential pet thoroughly to ensure you can meet their needs before bringing them home.
Conclusion: Is an Armadillo the Right Pet for You?
Keeping armadillos as pets is a complex and demanding endeavor. While their unique charm and intriguing behaviors are undeniable, armadillos are not suitable pets for everyone.
Before making a decision, carefully consider:
- Legality in your area.
- Ethical implications and your ability to provide a suitable environment.
- Your lifestyle and commitment to meeting their specialized needs.
- The potential health risks and veterinary care challenges.
For most individuals, admiring armadillos in their natural habitats or supporting wildlife conservation efforts is a more responsible and ethical approach than keeping them as pets. If you are truly prepared for the significant commitment and challenges, and can provide an environment that prioritizes their well-being, then armadillo ownership might be a unique and rewarding experience. However, thorough research, realistic expectations, and a deep commitment to responsible exotic pet ownership are essential.
FAQs About Keeping Armadillos as Pets
Are armadillos hard to take care of?
Yes, armadillos are considered difficult exotic pets to care for due to their specialized housing, dietary, and environmental needs. They require large, secure outdoor enclosures, specific temperature and substrate requirements, and a diet primarily consisting of insects.
Can you domesticate an armadillo?
Not in the traditional sense. While armadillos can be tamed and become accustomed to human interaction, they retain their wild instincts and behaviors. They are not domesticated animals like cats or dogs, and their care requirements reflect their wild nature.
How long do armadillos live as pets?
Armadillos can live for up to 30 years in captivity with proper care. In the wild, their lifespan is typically shorter, around 10-15 years, due to predation and environmental factors.
