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The Armadillos

Order Edentates or Toothless Animals

Nine-banded Armadillo Tatu novemcinctum Linnaeus

2026 Editor's Note: While historically associated with the southwestern United States, the nine-banded armadillo has expanded its range northward by approximately 1,700 kilometers since 1849. Due to climate change and landscape fragmentation, they are now considered neonative in states like Illinois, where shorter winters have decreased their mortality rates. Notably, these mammals are the only known non-human species capable of carrying the pathogen that causes Hansen’s disease or leprosy. (Ed: GG 2026-08-11)

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