© Charles J. Sharp / CC BY-SA 4.0Six-banded Armadillo
The Six-banded Armadillo is a South American species named for the six movable bands across its back. Unlike most armadillos, which are nocturnal and curl into a tight ball for defense, this species is active during the day and cannot roll up at all. Its sturdy build makes it one of the more commonly kept armadillo species in captivity. Adults grow to a solid 40-50cm head-and-body length with a 12-24cm tail and can weigh 3.2-6.5kg, and their curious daytime behavior makes them rewarding to observe. That said, keeping one well calls for real experience, making this a species best suited to advanced keepers.
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Apply as a breederSix-banded Armadillo key facts
- Care level
- Advanced
- Lifespan
- About 18 years (in captivity; maximum 22.1 years)
- Size
- Head-body 40-50cm / tail 12-24cm / 3.2-6.5kg
- Diet
- Dog food, insects, fruit, vegetables, boiled egg
- Cage
- Powerful claws destroy plastic, so use a sturdy metal enclosure. It cannot jump, so walls over 50 cm contain it. Provide diggable substrate.
- Grooming
- Dirt collects between the carapace and skin, so rinse with lukewarm water regularly. Trim claws if overgrown.
- Temperament
- Solitary, docile and silent. Diurnal, so active by day, but bolts quickly when startled.
- Notes
- Prone to obesity, nearly doubling its weight with stored fat, so control feeding. Few vets treat armadillos; find one in advance.
About Six-banded Armadillo
A South American armadillo named for the six movable bands on its back. Unlike most relatives, it's active by day and can't roll into a ball — a hardy species better suited to experienced keepers.
7 things to know before welcoming a Six-banded Armadillo
1Best Suited to Advanced Keepers
The Six-banded Armadillo is considered an advanced-level species. Prospective keepers should have solid knowledge of its natural history and husbandry requirements before bringing one home.
2Cannot Curl Up for Defense
Unlike most armadillo species, this one cannot curl into a tight ball for protection. When startled, it relies on digging quickly or running for cover instead, so its enclosure needs secure hiding spots.
3Diurnal and Easy to Observe
Most armadillos are nocturnal, but the Six-banded Armadillo is unusually active during the day. This makes it easier to observe and to read its daily rhythm compared with many nocturnal relatives.
4Grows Into a Solid, Stocky Build
Adults reach a head-and-body length of 40-50cm, a tail of 12-24cm, and a weight of 3.2-6.5kg. They become noticeably stocky and solid, so plan for an enclosure with plenty of floor space.
5Plan for Its Digging Habits
Armadillos are natural diggers, and this species is no exception. Provide substrate deep enough to let it express digging behavior, and plan escape-proof enclosure design accordingly.
6Requires a Long-Term Commitment
In captivity, the Six-banded Armadillo typically lives around 18 years, with a longest recorded lifespan of 22.1 years. Consider this long-term commitment carefully against your own life plans before bringing one home.
7Find a Vet Who Can Treat It
Veterinarians experienced with exotic species like the Six-banded Armadillo are not common. It's worth securing access to a knowledgeable vet or specialist before bringing one home.
Frequently asked questions about Six-banded Armadillo
- Q.How is it different from other armadillos?
- A.The biggest differences are that it can't curl into a full ball for defense and that it's active during the day. Most armadillos are nocturnal and roll up when threatened, while this species instead runs or digs to escape danger.
- Q.Is this species suitable for beginners?
- A.The Six-banded Armadillo is generally considered an advanced-level species to keep. It's best suited to keepers who already have solid knowledge and experience with its care requirements.
- Q.How big does it get?
- A.Adults grow to a head-and-body length of 40-50cm, a tail of 12-24cm, and a weight of 3.2-6.5kg. They end up noticeably stocky, so a spacious enclosure is essential.
- Q.How long does it live?
- A.In captivity, the Six-banded Armadillo typically lives around 18 years, with a longest recorded lifespan of 22.1 years. Be sure to consider this long-term commitment before bringing one home.
- Q.Is it subject to any wildlife trade regulations?
- A.The Six-banded Armadillo is not subject to CITES. That said, it's always a good idea to confirm the latest information before bringing one home.
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