# Understanding Armadillo Behavior to Implement Effective Trapping Strategies
Armadillos, with their unique armor and penchant for digging, can become a nuisance for homeowners and gardeners. Understanding their behavior is key to successfully and humanely trapping these fascinating creatures. While their presence might be disruptive, effective trapping requires patience, knowledge of their habits, and the right approach. This article will guide you through the process of understanding armadillo behavior and implementing appropriate trapping strategies.
Armadillos are primarily nocturnal or crepuscular, meaning they are most active during the twilight hours of dawn and dusk, and throughout the night. They are solitary animals, except during mating season, and are not typically aggressive. Their primary defense mechanism is their tough, bony shell, which allows them to roll into a ball (only the three-banded armadillo can do this) or to burrow rapidly into the ground for protection. Their diet consists mainly of insects, grubs, and other invertebrates, which they locate by using their keen sense of smell and then excavate with their powerful claws. This digging behavior is often the reason they are considered pests, as they can damage lawns, gardens, and even foundations.
| Category | Information |
| :—————- | :———————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————— |
| **Common Name** | Nine-banded Armadillo (most common in the US) |
| **Scientific Name** | *Dasypus novemcinctus* |
| **Native Range** | South America, expanded into Central America and the United States. |
| **Diet** | Primarily insectivorous: ants, termites, beetles, grubs, caterpillars, spiders, and other invertebrates. Occasionally consumes small vertebrates, eggs, and plant matter. |
| **Habitat** | Prefers moist, sandy, or loamy soils suitable for burrowing. Found in woodlands, forests, grasslands, and increasingly in suburban and urban areas. |
| **Burrowing** | Digs extensive burrows for shelter, food, and nesting. Burrows can be up to 20 feet long and have multiple entrances. |
| **Reproduction** | Mating typically occurs in spring. Females usually give birth to four identical quadruplets from a single fertilized egg (polyembryony). |
| **Lifespan** | Approximately 4-8 years in the wild, up to 20 years in captivity. |
| **Conservation Status** | Least Concern (IUCN). Population is stable and expanding in some regions. |
| **Reference Website** | [National Geographic – Armadillo](https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/facts/armadillo) |
## Understanding Armadillo Habitats and Entry Points
Armadillos are creatures of habit, and their routines revolve around finding food and creating safe havens. They are most commonly found in areas with loose soil, which makes burrowing easy. This includes gardens, lawns, under decks, sheds, and even near building foundations. Identifying their established pathways and burrow entrances is a crucial first step in any trapping endeavor. Look for signs of digging, overturned soil, and distinct openings in the ground. Sometimes, armadillos will create “day beds” or temporary resting spots in shallow depressions, which can also offer clues to their movements.
### Identifying Food Sources and Attractants
Since armadillos are primarily insectivores, areas rich in grubs, ants, and other invertebrates will naturally attract them. Lawns that are heavily irrigated or have a history of insect infestations can be prime armadillo territory. Compost piles, which often teem with insect life, can also be a major draw. Understanding what attracts them to your property will help in selecting effective bait for your traps.
## Choosing the Right Trap for Armadillo Removal
When it comes to trapping armadillos, live traps are the most recommended and humane option. These traps are designed to capture the animal without causing injury, allowing for relocation.
### Types of Live Traps
* **Treadle-activated cage traps:** These are the most common and effective for armadillos. They consist of a sturdy cage with a door that is triggered by a pressure plate (treadle) when the animal steps on it.
* **Box traps:** Similar in principle to cage traps, these are often made of wood or metal and also feature a trigger mechanism.
When selecting a trap, ensure it is large enough to comfortably accommodate an armadillo, typically around 10-12 inches high, 11-12 inches wide, and 30-36 inches long. The mesh should be sturdy enough to prevent escape but not so large that it poses a risk of injury.
> Armadillos have poor eyesight but an excellent sense of smell, which they use to locate their food. This means bait placement and scent within the trap are critical for success.
## Baiting and Placement Strategies for Armadillo Traps
The success of your trapping efforts hinges on proper baiting and strategic trap placement.
### Effective Baits for Armadillos
While armadillos are primarily insectivores, they can be attracted to other baits as well. Some of the most effective options include:
* **Canned pet food:** Particularly wet dog or cat food with a strong aroma.
* **Bacon or sardines:** The strong scent of these products can be very enticing.
* **Mealworms or grubs:** If you can find them, these are a natural attractant.
* **A combination of scents:** Sometimes, mixing a protein-based bait with a few live earthworms can increase effectiveness.
### Strategic Trap Placement
* **Along established pathways:** Place traps directly in the path of an armadillo’s regular travel routes, often between burrows or feeding areas.
* **Near burrow entrances:** Position traps near active burrow openings, but ensure they do not block the entrance entirely, as this can deter the animal.
* **Create a funnel:** Use materials like plywood, chicken wire, or even branches to create “funnels” that guide the armadillo towards the trap. This can be particularly effective if the trap is placed in an open area.
> Did you know that armadillos can hold their breath for up to six minutes? This amazing ability allows them to burrow into the ground to escape predators and even to pursue prey underwater in shallow streams or ponds.
## Handling and Releasing Trapped Armadillos
Once an armadillo is successfully trapped, it’s important to handle the situation with care and responsibility.
### Safety Precautions
* **Wear gloves:** Always wear thick gloves when handling the trap, as armadillos can bite if they feel threatened, despite their generally timid nature.
* **Cover the trap:** Once the armadillo is caught, cover the trap with a blanket or tarp. This helps to calm the animal by reducing visual stimulation.
* **Minimize handling:** Avoid unnecessary handling of the trap or the animal.
### Relocation Guidelines
Relocation is often the most effective way to deal with a nuisance armadillo. However, it’s crucial to release it in an appropriate environment.
* **Find a suitable habitat:** Choose a location with plenty of cover, access to water, and a soil type suitable for burrowing. Areas with natural insect populations are ideal.
* **Check local regulations:** Some areas have specific regulations regarding the trapping and relocation of wildlife. Be sure to check with your local animal control or wildlife agency before releasing the animal.
* **Release at an opportune time:** The best time to release an armadillo is usually in the early morning or late evening, allowing it to acclimate to its new surroundings during its active hours.
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Trapping Armadillos
**Q1: Are armadillos dangerous to humans?**
A1: Armadillos are generally not considered dangerous to humans. They are timid creatures and will typically try to flee or burrow when approached. However, they can bite if cornered or threatened, so it’s best to handle them with caution and wear protective gloves. They can also carry diseases like leprosy, although the risk of transmission to humans is very low.
**Q2: How long should I leave a trap set?**
A2: Traps should be checked at least twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. It is important to avoid leaving a trapped animal in the trap for extended periods, especially during extreme weather conditions.
**Q3: What if I trap an animal that isn’t an armadillo?**
A3: If you trap an animal that is not an armadillo, it’s important to release it immediately and in a safe manner, following the same precautions as for an armadillo. Ensure your trap is baited and placed appropriately for armadillos to minimize the chances of catching other wildlife.
**Q4: Can I use poisonous bait to kill armadillos?**
A4: It is strongly discouraged and often illegal to use poisonous bait. It is inhumane, can harm non-target animals (including pets and beneficial wildlife), and poses risks to the environment. Live trapping and relocation are the recommended
