Can You Get An Armadillo As A Pet? Armadillos, with their unique armored shells, are fascinating creatures, and you might be wondering if they make good companions. PETS.EDU.VN clarifies the realities of armadillo ownership, offering insights into their care needs and legal considerations. We’ll guide you through the essentials, helping you determine if you can provide the proper environment, diet, and care for these exotic animals.
Thinking of bringing an armadillo into your home? PETS.EDU.VN offers valuable information on exotic pet ownership, responsible pet care, and unusual animal companions.
1. Understanding Armadillos: More Than Just an Unusual Pet
1.1. Armadillo Species: Which Ones Are Kept as Pets?
While there are approximately 20 armadillo species in the wild, only a select few are occasionally kept as pets. It’s crucial to remember that armadillos are not domesticated animals like dogs or cats. They retain their wild instincts and require specialized care that can be challenging to provide. Here’s a closer look at the species you might encounter as potential pets:
- Three-Banded Armadillo (Tolypeutes matacus and Tolypeutes tricinctus): This species, native to South America, is perhaps the most common armadillo kept as a pet. Its unique ability to roll completely into a ball is a defining characteristic.
- Screaming Hairy Armadillo (Chaetophractus vellerosus): As its name suggests, this armadillo is known for the high-pitched squeal it emits when threatened or handled. It’s less popular than the three-banded armadillo due to its defensive behavior.
- Big Hairy Armadillo (Chaetophractus villosus): The largest of the three species sometimes kept as pets, the big hairy armadillo requires even more space and resources than its smaller cousins.
1.2. Armadillo Characteristics: Size, Lifespan, and Temperament
Understanding the basic characteristics of armadillos is essential before considering one as a pet:
| Characteristic | Three-Banded Armadillo | Screaming Hairy Armadillo | Big Hairy Armadillo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Size | 20-42 inches long | Smaller than three-banded armadillo | Largest of the three pet species |
| Lifespan | Up to 30 years in captivity | Unknown | Unknown |
| Natural habitat | South America | South America | South America |
Important Note: Armadillos are naturally solitary animals. In the wild, they primarily interact for mating and raising young. Keeping multiple armadillos together can lead to conflict and stress. They are also nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night.
1.3. Ethically Acquiring an Armadillo
It’s essential to source your armadillo from a reputable breeder who prioritizes the animal’s well-being. Wild-caught armadillos often struggle to adapt to captivity and may carry diseases. Ensure the breeder is licensed and adheres to all local and federal regulations regarding exotic animal ownership.
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2. Is Owning an Armadillo Legal and Ethical?
2.1. Legality: Navigating Exotic Pet Laws
Before even considering getting an armadillo, you absolutely must check your local laws. The legality of owning exotic animals like armadillos varies significantly from state to state, and even county to county. Some areas completely prohibit armadillo ownership, while others require permits or licenses.
Actionable Step: Contact your local animal control office, Department of Natural Resources, or a similar agency to obtain accurate information about the specific regulations in your area. Don’t rely on anecdotal evidence or outdated information.
2.2. Ethical Considerations: Can You Meet an Armadillo’s Needs?
Even if it’s legal to own an armadillo in your area, it’s crucial to consider whether you can ethically provide for its complex needs. Armadillos are wild animals with specific requirements that are difficult to replicate in a domestic setting. Ask yourself the following questions:
- Space: Can you provide a large, secure outdoor enclosure that allows for natural foraging and burrowing behavior? Wild armadillos roam across several acres.
- Diet: Are you prepared to provide a consistent supply of insects and other invertebrates, which are the mainstay of an armadillo’s diet?
- Environment: Can you maintain a consistently warm environment, especially during colder months? Armadillos are susceptible to cold stress and frostbite.
- Veterinary Care: Are you able to find a qualified exotic animal veterinarian who has experience treating armadillos?
- Commitment: Are you prepared for a potentially long-term commitment? Armadillos can live for over a decade in captivity.
If you cannot confidently answer “yes” to all of these questions, then owning an armadillo is likely not a responsible choice. PETS.EDU.VN encourages responsible pet ownership and emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the animal’s well-being.
2.3. Understanding the Impact of Exotic Pet Trade
The exotic pet trade can have devastating consequences for wild populations and ecosystems. Irresponsible breeding and capture practices can deplete wild armadillo populations, disrupt natural habitats, and contribute to the spread of diseases. By choosing to acquire an armadillo, you are participating in this trade, so it’s crucial to do so ethically and responsibly.
3. Understanding Armadillo Behavior and Temperament
3.1. Solitary Nature: Armadillos and Social Interaction
Armadillos are naturally solitary creatures, primarily interacting with others of their kind only for mating and raising their young. Housing multiple armadillos together can lead to conflict and stress.
3.2. Nocturnal Rhythms: Adjusting to an Armadillo’s Schedule
Armadillos are nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the night. This can present challenges for owners who expect a pet that will interact with them during the day.
3.3. Destructive Digging: A Natural Instinct
Armadillos have powerful claws and a natural instinct to dig and burrow. This behavior can be destructive to lawns, gardens, and even indoor environments if not properly managed.
3.4. The Myth of Rolling into a Ball
While some armadillo species can roll into a ball for defense, not all can. This behavior is a sign of distress and should not be encouraged. Forcing an armadillo to curl up can cause it significant stress and discomfort.
4. Creating the Right Habitat for Your Armadillo
4.1. Outdoor Enclosures: Space, Security, and Climate Control
Armadillos cannot be comfortably housed indoors due to their strong, musky odor and their need to dig and forage. Outdoor enclosures are essential, but they must be carefully designed to provide:
- Ample Space: A minimum of 100 square feet per armadillo is recommended, but more space is always better.
- Secure Fencing: Fencing must be sturdy and extend at least two feet underground to prevent the armadillo from digging its way out.
- Climate Control: Provide both sunny and shaded areas to allow the armadillo to regulate its body temperature. A small wading pool can also be a welcome addition, especially during hot weather.
- Burrowing Opportunities: Provide large mounds of mulch, soil, or wood chips in which the armadillo can burrow.
4.2. Indoor Housing (When Necessary): Challenges and Considerations
In colder climates, it may be necessary to bring your armadillo indoors during the winter. However, this presents significant challenges:
- Destructive Behavior: Armadillos can be extremely destructive indoors, digging and tearing at carpets, furniture, and other surfaces.
- Odor Control: Their strong odor can be difficult to manage in an enclosed space.
- Space Limitations: Providing adequate space for an armadillo to roam and forage indoors is often impractical.
If indoor housing is unavoidable, an insulated barn or other spacious enclosure with a dirt floor is the best option. Ensure the temperature remains consistently above 71 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius).
4.3. Substrate Needs
Armadillos enjoy burrowing in soft ground. If you’re not keeping your pet somewhere where this is naturally available to them, make sure you provide large mounds of mulch or mulch mixed with wood chips in which they can burrow.
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5. Feeding Your Armadillo: Diet and Nutritional Needs
5.1. Insectivores by Nature: Mimicking Their Natural Diet
Armadillos are primarily insectivores, meaning their diet consists mainly of insects and other small invertebrates. In the wild, they forage for food using their strong claws to dig in the soil.
5.2. Dietary Variety: Supplementing with Fruits and Vegetables
While insects should form the core of their diet, armadillos can also be offered a variety of fruits and vegetables, such as:
- Fruits: Berries, melon, grapes
- Vegetables: Sweet potatoes, cooked vegetables
5.3. Water Requirements: Fresh, Clean, and Accessible
Like all animals, armadillos need constant access to fresh, clean, non-chlorinated water. Provide a water bowl that is shallow enough for the armadillo to drink from easily.
5.4. Consulting with an Exotic Animal Veterinarian
Always consult with an exotic animal veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations tailored to your armadillo’s age, health, and activity level. They can help you create a balanced diet that meets all of its nutritional needs.
6. Armadillo Health: Common Problems and Veterinary Care
6.1. Zoonotic Diseases: Leprosy and Rabies
Armadillos are known to carry the bacteria that causes leprosy in humans, although the risk of transmission is low. They can also transmit rabies. It is crucial to take precautions to minimize the risk of disease transmission:
- Wash your hands thoroughly after handling an armadillo or being in its enclosure.
- Avoid contact with wild armadillos, as they are more likely to carry diseases.
- Consult with your doctor if you develop any symptoms of illness after being exposed to an armadillo.
6.2. Finding a Qualified Veterinarian: A Challenge for Exotic Pet Owners
Veterinary care for armadillos can be difficult to find, as many veterinarians do not have experience treating these animals. It is essential to find a qualified exotic animal veterinarian who is knowledgeable about armadillo health and can provide appropriate medical care.
6.3. Susceptibility to Cold: Protecting Your Armadillo from the Elements
Armadillos are prone to frostbite due to their slow metabolism and lack of thick fur. It is crucial to provide them with adequate shelter and warmth during cold weather.
6.4. Regular Checkups
Regular veterinary checkups are essential for maintaining your armadillo’s health. A veterinarian can help you identify and address any health problems early on.
7. Exercise and Enrichment: Keeping Your Armadillo Active and Engaged
7.1. Natural Foraging: Encouraging Natural Behaviors
If kept in a proper environment, armadillos will fulfill all their exercise needs on their own. Many zoos also provide their armadillos with exercise wheels, which can also be an option for your pet if you have the necessary room.
7.2. Enrichment Activities: Providing Mental Stimulation
In addition to physical exercise, armadillos also need mental stimulation to prevent boredom and stress. Provide them with enrichment activities such as:
- Hiding food in different locations within their enclosure.
- Providing puzzle toys that require them to use their problem-solving skills to access treats.
- Introducing new objects and scents into their environment.
7.3. Supervised Exploration
Allowing your armadillo to explore a safe, enclosed area outside of its primary enclosure under supervision can provide valuable exercise and mental stimulation.
8. Grooming and Handling: Minimizing Stress and Maintaining Hygiene
8.1. Minimal Grooming Needs: Letting Nature Take Its Course
Armadillos do not require any human grooming, including bathing. Their armored plates are made of keratin, the same material as human fingernails, and provide natural protection.
8.2. Safe Handling Practices: Avoiding Stress and Injury
While some armadillos may become accustomed to being handled, it is important to do so gently and avoid causing them stress. Never force an armadillo to be held or petted.
8.3. Monitoring the Armored Plates
Regularly inspect your armadillo’s armored plates for any signs of damage, discoloration, or peeling. These could be signs of underlying health problems.
9. Training and Socialization: Realistic Expectations
9.1. Limited Trainability: Understanding Their Wild Nature
Armadillos are not known for their intelligence and are not easily trained. Do not expect your pet armadillos to learn any tricks or retain any training.
9.2. Importance of Early Human Exposure: Building Trust and Reducing Fear
If raised in a human environment from a young age, pet armadillos can actually be quite affectionate and calm. They can enjoy being petted or sitting on your lap.
9.3. Positive Reinforcement
While armadillos may not be trainable in the traditional sense, you can use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage desired behaviors, such as coming when called or entering their enclosure.
10. Purchasing an Armadillo: Finding a Reputable Breeder
10.1. Avoiding Wild-Caught Animals: Protecting Their Welfare
You will not want to adopt a wild or adult armadillo, as it will be very difficult to care for and train. Expect to pay $2,000 to $3,000 for a bred and hand-tamed, baby armadillo.
10.2. Inquiring About Certificates: Ensuring Legality and Ethical Practices
Make sure you’re purchasing your pet through an accredited breeder, and inquire as to whether they have the proper certificates in place that allow for legal resale in your state or town.
10.3. Visiting the Breeder
Before purchasing an armadillo, visit the breeder’s facility to ensure that the animals are kept in clean, spacious, and enriching environments. This will give you a better understanding of the breeder’s practices and the armadillo’s overall health and temperament.
11. Alternatives to Armadillos: Exploring Other Exotic Pet Options
11.1. Similar Exotic Pets: Weighing the Pros and Cons
If you’re interested in pets similar to an armadillo, check out other exotic animals that can be your pet.
11.2. Considering Your Lifestyle: Choosing a Pet That Fits Your Needs
Ultimately, the best pet for you is one that fits your lifestyle and that you can provide with the proper care. Carefully consider your resources, experience, and commitment level before making a decision.
11.3. Researching Different Species
Before acquiring any exotic pet, conduct thorough research to understand its specific needs and whether you can realistically meet them.
12. FAQs About Armadillos as Pets
12.1. Are Armadillos Hard to Take Care Of?
Yes. Armadillos are definitely one of the more difficult exotic pets to care for, primarily due to their need for a housing environment that very nearly mimics the one they would experience in the wild.
12.2. Can You Domesticate an Armadillo?
Not really—while you can acquire an armadillo that has been bred for pet ownership, at the end of the day these are wild animals and their needs and behavior will largely reflect that.
12.3. How Long Do Armadillos Live as Pets?
Armadillos can live up to 20 years in captivity, and will experience a slightly abbreviated lifespan in the wild (closer to 10 years), thanks to natural predators.
12.4. What Do Armadillos Eat?
Armadillos primarily eat insects and small invertebrates. Their diet should be supplemented with fruits and vegetables.
12.5. Are Armadillos Dangerous?
Armadillos can carry diseases like leprosy and rabies. They also have sharp claws that can cause injury.
12.6. Do Armadillos Make Good Pets for Children?
Armadillos are not generally recommended as pets for children due to their potential to carry diseases and their sharp claws.
12.7. How Much Does It Cost to Keep an Armadillo?
The cost of keeping an armadillo can vary, but expect to spend several thousand dollars per year on food, housing, and veterinary care.
12.8. Do Armadillos Smell?
Yes, armadillos have a strong, musky odor that can be difficult to manage in an indoor environment.
12.9. Where Can I Buy an Armadillo?
Armadillos can be purchased from licensed breeders, but it’s important to ensure that the breeder is reputable and adheres to ethical practices.
12.10. What Kind of Veterinary Care Do Armadillos Need?
Armadillos need regular veterinary checkups and vaccinations to protect them from diseases. It’s important to find a veterinarian who specializes in exotic animals.
13. PETS.EDU.VN: Your Partner in Responsible Exotic Pet Ownership
Choosing an armadillo as a pet is a big decision that demands serious thought and preparation. At PETS.EDU.VN, we understand the challenges and rewards of caring for unique animals. While armadillos can be interesting companions, their specific needs make them unsuitable for most pet owners.
We encourage you to explore our website for detailed information on a wide variety of pets, including those that may be a better fit for your lifestyle. From responsible care guides to expert advice, PETS.EDU.VN is your trusted source for all things pet-related.
Need more information? Contact us today!
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