Latin Name |
Priodontes maximus |
Conservation Status |
Vulnerable |
Location
| South America |
Colour |
Brown |
Length |
75 - 100 cm (30 - 39 inches) |
Tail |
50 cm (20 inches) |
Weight |
30 Kgs (66 lbs) |
Life Expectancy |
12 - 15 Yrs |
Main Characteristics
Giant Armadillos are the largest species of armadillo. They have a body length between 75 and 100 cms (30 - 39 inches), a tail length of 50 cms (20 inches) and they weigh in the region of 30 kgs (66 lbs).
Habitat
Giant Armadillos can be found in a variety of habitats in South America.
Diet
Giant Armadillos mainly feed on termites but they are also known to eat ants, worms, larvae and spiders.
Breeding
After a gestation period of approximately 4 months, Giant Armadillos give birth to 1 - 2 young. They are weaned at 4 - 6 weeks and they reach sexual maturity at 9 - 12 months.
Predators
Due to their size and heavy shielding Giant Armadillos have few natural predators, however unlike other armadillos they cannot completely hide itself within its body armour so they sometimes fall prey to mountain lions, jaguars and humans.
Subspecies
There are no subspecies of the Giant Armadillo.
Interesting Facts
Giant Armadillos are also known as:
Tatou
Ocarro
Tatu-canastra
Tatu Carreta
Similar Animals
Pichi
Big Hairy Armadillo
Andean Hairy Armadillo
Screaming Hairy Armadillo
Pink Fairy Armadillo
Greater Fairy Armadillo
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