Nine-banded armadillo

The nine-banded armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus) is a mammal from the group of armadillos (Dasypoda). It is one of the best known and most widespread representatives of this group, and it is also the most researched. The occurrence of this armadillo species is not limited to large parts of South America, it is the only species still alive today that is also common in North America, where it was first observed in the 1850s. The habitats that the nine-banded armadillo inhabits are very diverse and mainly include forests and partly open landscapes, which, however, have to be more or less moist; it is also considered extremely adaptable, but it cannot cope with longer periods of cold. The animals live solitary and dig underground burrows. They mate once a year. The usually four newborns usually represent four genetically identical kittens and remain with the mother for up to nine months. The armadillo species is also very adaptable in terms of nutrition and mainly eats insects, but also smaller vertebrates. Due to the wide distribution, up to seven subspecies are distinguished. Significant in the relationship with humans is the fact that the nine-band armadillo carries pathogens of leprosy and Chagas disease and is so often used in medicine as a laboratory animal. In some countries in its range it is also considered a food resource. The nine-band armadillo is not classified as endangered.