More interesting facts for the future armadillo owner!

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: Nine Banded Armadillo -(Dasypus novemcinctus)- : : Positives of armadillos as pets? : Armadillos use a litter box, and they are quiet and sweet. They don't bite and they keep insects out of the house if allowed to roam. : Negatives of armadillos as pets? : Armadillos are diggers so will tear up your potted plants and carpeting. They are a little difficult to pick up and aren't a cuddly animal. You have to watch out for their feet which can pinch or dig into your skin. : : Do they have scent glands or an offensive smell? : No odor at all. : : What is their average lifespan? : In captivity, much longer than in the wild. About 10 years. : : Do they enjoy interaction? : They don't seem to mind, but I think it's just food oriented. : : What is their general personality, disposition, and attitude? : They aren't afraid of anything, basically just interested in food, shelter and warmth. : Are they sweet and petable, or mischievious and playful? : Sweet and petable. They get into mischief. Not playful. : : How destructive are they for an average household? : If you have carpeting, forget it. They will dig it up looking for insects. : Do they climb or tear up furniture? : Not good climbers of indoor utilities, but can get up a small step if necessary. Will tear up furniture if you put it up on the furniture. : : Are their any problems associated with their claws? : When given the chance to dig, their claws will stay dulled. : : How messy are their droppings? : Not messy at all. They will use a litter box. : : Can they be litter box trained? : Yes : Can they be trained? : Just about any animal can be trained with the right "incentives". : : How are they with other pets, larger and smaller? : Fine, even most dogs and cats do well : What size cage do they need? : I think they do fine free-roaming the "carpetless" house or room or a backyard that is escape-proof. I would give them a large cage (minimum of 4 x 4 x 4) but you would have to let it out for interaction and exercise. : : What do you feed them? : Fruits and vegetables (finely chopped), crickets (frozen), mealworms, ants (they'll find them), little raw meat occasionally (preferably carrion), softened monkey chow : What vaccinations/vet care do they require? : None that I know of. Occasional vet check up. : : At what age would it be best to get one? : When a baby, but most do transfer nicely as adults. : Other Consideration for owners of armadillos? : They don't do well in the cold. If outdoors, they must have a cage buried three feet deep so they can burrow and not get out. Outdoor heating is no option! : What kind of person should own these animals? : Anyone willing to take on the responsibilities that come along, However, they are quite inexpensive as exotics go! I would love to see them in zoos! : About me: : I hope to get my own dillo this Spring and am currently looking for anyone who might have one available or know of anyone that may be breeding them. Anyone with any other questions or suggestions or if you know of any breeders, Please E-mail me!

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