Our New Neighbors continued...

Trapping

The armadillo’s nocturnal behavior and general lack of interest in baited traps makes trapping them challenging.

Cage-type live traps, however, often work well. The traps should be at least 10-by-12-by-32 inches. Place them along pathways leading to burrows or along fences or other barriers.

You can enhance a trap’s effectiveness by using “wings” of 1-by-4 or 1-by-6 inch boards at least 6 feet long to help funnel the armadillo into the opening. Overripe fruits, earthworms or mealworms can be suspended in a nylon sack in the trap to help attract the animals inside.

Shooting

Rule 4.130 of the Wildlife Code allows landowners to use lethal methods to control nuisance wildlife causing damage. Shooting, where allowed by local statutes, is effective in selectively controlling armadillos.

The best time to shoot is when armadillos are most active, either during twilight hours or at night by using a spotlight or yard lights. A shotgun with No. 4 to BB shot or a .22 or other small caliber rifle will do the job. Use good judgement and always be sure you have a safe shot.

Shooting should be a method of last resort, however. As armadillo numbers increase and as our numbers increase we’re bound to have a few conflicts, but we can get along. It’s usually the case when wildlife and people share space that good fences make good neighbors. When it comes to armadillos, an ounce of prevention is definitely worth a pound of cure. end of article

Armadillo Facts

  • Armadillo is Spanish for “little armored one.”
  • During the Great Depression, armadillos were known as “Hoover Hogs” because they were eaten instead of the “chicken in every pot” that Hoover had promised.
  • Armadillos can contract and carry leprosy (Hansen’s Disease). However, the only known way they can transfer this disease is when humans eat undercooked armadillo meat.
  • Armadillos often end up as road kill because they have a habit of jumping when startled. This is not the best defensive tactic when you’re underneath a moving vehicle.

<< Page 1 | 2| 3 | 4

Plants & Animals

About This Article

Authors

authorREX MARTENSEN is a 16-year Department employee who worked in Fisheries and Protection divisions before filling his current role as field program supervisor for the Private Land Services Division. Rex and his family reside in Moniteau County. He enjoys fishing and all types of hunting.

Gallery

gallery
Click to view gallery.