Giant Armadillo (Priodontes maximus) — Near Threatened Mammalia

Giant Armadillo

Priodontes maximus

Conservation Status

Near Threatened

Mammalia · Cingulata · Chlamyphoridae

About

The giant armadillo, colloquially tatu-canastra, tatou, ocarro or tatú carreta, is the largest living species of armadillo. It lives in South America, ranging throughout as far south as northern Argentina. This species is considered vulnerable to extinction.

Fun Fact

Giant armadillos have more teeth than any other land mammal — up to 100 tiny, peg-like teeth — and their claws are so large (20 cm) that they walk on their knuckles.

Quick Facts

Habitat

Tropical forests and grasslands

Diet

Insectivore

Lifespan

12-15 years

Threats

  • Wildfire
  • Poaching
  • Illegal Wildlife Trade

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

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