Among all the diversity of the animal world, one can single out such living creatures that have a kind of unusual appearance. For example, an animal called an armadillo is the proud owner of an armored body. These creatures belong to the squad and family of the same name (armadillos).
Armadillos are called animals covered with a reliable shell, consisting of several plates. Thanks to their armor, these animals got their name.
Armadillos live in the United States in fields or sandy plains. The length of the animal reaches 135 cm, and the height of the individual reaches 30 cm.
On the back of the animal, there are from three to nine stripes. There are five species of these ancient animals in the world. The armadillo's tail is also covered with armor, with the exception of one single species, which is called soft-tailed.
Various beetles, ants, worms, larvae and termites that live in the ground or leaves serve as food for armadillos. The animals dig out food with their strong front paws and claws. Armadillos hunt at night and hide in their burrows during the day. In case of danger, they quickly burrow into the ground.
The three-lane armadillo is the only species capable of curling up and taking the shape of a ball, while hiding its legs, head and tail inside.
In Brazil, Guiana and Paraguay, there are giant armadillos weighing up to 50 kg. The animal has a strong musk smell, so the natives do not eat it. If you arrange a chase for an animal, it begins to snort and burrow into the ground, and so quickly that even a few people are not able to dig it out.
The smallest type of battleship is the shield bearer. Its height does not exceed 13 cm. The animal leads a secretive lifestyle, so scientists know little about its habits.