Look Out For Mating Armadillos In Florida
Armadillos are probably one of the wildest creatures roaming the Sunshine State. Their hard shell, pointy face, long tails, claws, and quick movements make them stealthy. But, if you’re starting to see more Armadillos in Florida, mating season is here, and there are a few things you should look out for.
The only species of Armadillos in Florida is the Nine-banded armadillo. They are nocturnal animals so you’ll likely see them after dark or early morning.
Their outer shell (armor) helps protect them from predators like coyotes, bobcats, and dogs. If you see armadillos in Florida, they may jump in the air, make grunting noises, or run away quickly.
Things To Know About Armadillos In Florida
With Armadillo mating season in full swing here in Florida, you may start seeing more armadillo action around the block. Here are a few things you may need to know about armadillos in Florida.
The Florida Wildlife Trappers say, “Burrowing habits can damage lawns, gardens, tree roots, and building foundations. Their constant rooting for grubs and insects aerates and disturbs soil. Burrows are used for sleeping, rearing young, and escape from extreme heat or cold.”
The mating season for nine-banded armadillos in Florida runs from July through August. The armadillo embryo stays dormant until November. The craziest part? The female armadillo gives birth to 4 identical pups (quadruplets) that all come from one single fertilized egg.
The armadillo pups stay within the burrow for 2-3 weeks after birth and then follow their mother for foraging techniques. They’ll typically stick with the mother until the next mating season and then “establish their own range”.
In the cooler areas of the state, the Nine-banded Armadillos in Florida live about 5-7 years, on average. In the warmer areas of Florida, they can survive longer.
Are Armadillos In Florida Dangerous To You Or Your Property?
Since armadillos are known for digging, they do pose a threat to your yards and landscaping. They are known for their ability to dig and it is said that one armadillo can uproot your plants, and vegetables and destroy your foundation.
Some armadillos are also known to carry diseases like leprosy. This is one of the more serious problems with armadillos in the wild. Take necessary caution when handling armadillos or burrows they may create on your property.
If you need help removing armadillos from your property, it may be best to consult a professional. To learn more about armadillos in Florida, visit the FWC website.
The 5 Most Dangerous Animals In Florida
Great White Shark
Yes, Great White Sharks are found in the waters around Florida. A almost 1,200 pound shark that was almost 13 feet in length was tracked back in March of this year.
Bull Shark
#1 and #2 on the list are sharks. They are in the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. They grow to about 11 feet and can live about 24 years.
Alligator
Alligators live in all 67 counties in Florida. You can find alligators in any body of water including lakes, ponds, rivers, marshes, swamps and man-made canals. We’ve seen multiple reports this year of gator attacks, even some fatal ones.
Eastern Dimondback Rattlesnake
They are found in pine flatwoods, longleaf pine and turkey oak hammocks, sand pine scrub areas, and coastal barrier islands. Yes it is venomous.
Cottonmouth Snake
It is venomous and can be found throughout Florida. It is called a cottonmouth because of the white color of the inside of its mouth.
