I was thrilled to see and photograph a Nine-banded Armadillo last week at Osage Hills State Park in Oklahoma. The last time I photographed one was in Florida. That would have been in 2009.
Nine-banded Armadillo close up at Osage Hills State Park – Canon R7, handheld, f8, 1/1600, ISO 1600, +0.7 EV, Canon 100-400mm at 400mm, natural light
Until now, I hadn’t shared any Nine-banded Armadillo photos or created a photo gallery for these strange-looking mammals. Now I do. I’ll round up some of the photos I took of them in Florida when or if I find some spare time.
Nine-banded Armadillos have distinctive armor-like shells, consisting of bony plates covered in leathery skin. They have 9 visible bands (though this can vary from 8 to 11), a long snout, small eyes, large pointed ears, and short legs with strong claws.
These armadillos can do a lot of damage in yards and gardens when they dig for small invertebrates. They also eat some fruits, small reptiles, amphibians, and the eggs of ground nesting birds.
Nine-banded Armadillos are often called “armored possums” or “Texas speedbumps” due to their appearance and tendency to be hit by cars.
Adult Nine-banded Armadillo walking at Osage Hills State Park – Canon R7, handheld, f8, 1/2500, ISO 1600, +0.3 EV, Canon 100-400mm at 400mm, natural light
The habitat at Osage Hills State Park must be great for Nine-banded Armadillos because we saw them quite frequently or we saw where they had been digging.
Seeing my first armadillo at the park was exciting—I could barely speak. I hopped out of the pickup and walked over to photograph the armadillo as quickly as I could. I’d been waiting months to have a live one in my viewfinder.
My friend and wonderful wildlife photographer Steve Creek shared some images and information about these fascinating creatures and the park on his site: Starting the New Year at Osage Hills State Park
I can barely wait to see and photograph more Nine-banded Armadillos!
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Nine-banded Armadillo photos plus facts and information about this species. I’ll be adding more images to the gallery as I find more armadillos.
Armadillo’s are such weirdly beautiful beasties. They certainly do look like refugees from eons past. I love this shot because it so sharply defines the Armadillo’s features. Thanks Mia.
I’ve always wondered what the prehistoric cousin of the armadillo would have looked like. Some armored plated beast, no doubt, the size of a truck. Thanks Mia
How exciting. Never had the opportunity to see one. Maybe I’m due for a road trip to Oklahoma!
What fascinating critters they are. Like so many…
So cool! I think armadillos are adorable and this one is no exception! 😍 What fabulous adaptations they have!