“The little armoured thing” is the name given to this strange creature by Spanish explorers. Armadillos have strong claws that they use to dig burrows in the ground. They use their long, narrow tongues to catch insects. They only have small teeth deep in their mouths, so armadillos cannot bite in self-defence. Their shell is the best protection they have.

Although born with a soft skin, bony plates soon form to become an armoured shield covering their bodies. When in danger they roll themselves into a ball, making it difficult for an enemy to bite them.

The flesh of the armadillo is good to eat. Females give birth to four babies at a time, always of the same gender. They are natives of South and Central America, but have been found as far north as Texas.