In the West Palm Beach area, armadillos are not uncommon due to the climate. Armadillos thrive in temperate and warm habitats. While they do not pose much of an immediate threat to humans, these critters are still quite a risk to have on your property as they can cause serious damage.

What Are Armadillos Dangerous?

Armadillos burrow deep into the ground to find insects and vegetation. Although burrowing may seem harmless outside of the aesthetic impairment, it can:

• Damage underground powerlines and other cables
• Weaken the ground below the surface, introducing a risk of sinkholes
• Destroy vegetation and landscaping on your property
• Crack or weaken the foundation of your home or patio

Identifying Armadillos

Armadillos are fairly easy to identify due to their iconic look. Their tales are scaly and their face features a long pointed nose. The majority of the armadillo’s body will be covered in armored plating for protection when they roll up into a ball in self-defense. Additionally, you will notice their strong claws, which allow them to burrow as much as they do, as well as small tufts of hair sticking out from their underbelly.

If you do not see the critter, you may notice damaged flower beds, holes in the yard, and dying trees. They are fast and efficient diggers, so you may see a large area of land dug up overnight as they search for food.

Armadillo Diet

Their diet mainly consists of insects, but armadillos also nibble on fruit and carrion given the opportunity. They use long tongues to lick up ants and termites in their nests. Other favorite foods include beetles, spiders, worms, and grubs. Occasionally, armadillos eat small frogs, lizards, snakes, or eggs as snacks.

The animals dig burrows with their powerful claws and sleep for up to 16 hours a day, emerging during twilight to search for food. Armadillos dig several burrows in the area surrounding their nests to use for escaping predators. Burrows are usually located in loose, sandy soils and entrances are strategically placed in the shelter of rocks, dense shrubs, or trees.

Professional Assistance

Though armadillos may not be threatening to you, it is not to say that there is no inherent risk to having them on your property. In the event that armadillos make their way onto your land, action should be taken to prevent further damage. Don’t hesitate to contact Critter Control^®  at the first sign of armadillo activity to request your free consultation.