In this article, we find out if armadillos, like some mammals, hibernate in winter. The answer determines how we proceed.

When Do Armadillos Come Out?

Not many animals come with natural body armor as armadillos do. It’s no surprise that their name is coined from a Spanish word that translates to “little armored one.”

While their bodily armors may look amazing, not many want to deal with these creatures as they’re known to carry quite many diseases, including leprosy.

Because these barrel-shaped animals are considered pests, knowing how they interact with the weather is a first step towards finding a lasting solution to the menace caused.

About Armadillos

We’ve earlier stated that these creatures have natural body armor and have a distinctive appearance that isn’t difficult to identify.

In terms of size, armadillos measure about the size of possums and have brown to yellowish-brown coloration. They dig for insects and others using their narrow snouts.

  • Diet

Armadillos have a wide diet variety that includes frogs, insects, bird eggs, fruits, snakes, fire ants, and lizards.

Sometimes, in seeking food, these creatures end up in yards and gardens, which lead to a lot of damage. No one wants their garden or lawns dug by armadillos or other creatures.

That is why It’s important to have a preventive plan in place to keep them at bay. Understanding whether they hibernate in winter is also important to the prevention process.

First, Armadillos Prefer Cooler Climates

To start our discussion, we highlight the weather preferences for armadillos.

These creatures thrive best in cooler climates. While this is true, only moderate temperatures are preferred. In other words, they don’t do well when exposed to extreme weather conditions.

In summer, you’ll find armadillos around areas with a lot of shade. This is understandable due to their preference for cool climates.

Do Armadillos Hibernate?

Coming back to the question, the simple answer is they don’t! Armadillos do not hibernate in winter.

There have been many misconceptions about these mammals hibernating, but findings and observations have revealed that armadillos remain active for various reasons.

One of these reasons is the fact that armadillos are unable to store significant body fat to last through winter.

At best, they only hide for a short period from the harsh weather before coming out in search of prey when they most need it.

  • When Armadillos Become a Problem

Certain animals are only classified as pests when they come too close for comfort or when their activities cause damage. Armadillos are among such creatures.

Mostly, these creatures aren’t deterred by climatic conditions such as winter. They may find a suitable nesting site close to your home.

When they come around, it won’t be long before you start seeing signs of burrows and damage to lawns and gardens when foraging for food.

These issues worsen when armadillos can infiltrate below your home’s foundation. When such is noticed, more urgent action is needed to address the problem.

  • Health Risks Posed by Armadillos

With armadillos still active in winter, there are fears that they may harbor diseases. So do they harbor diseases? According to the CDC, there have been a few cases of leprosy linked to armadillos.

This sounds scary, but the good news is such diseases require prolonged contact with the infected source to be also infected.

What more? Over 95% of people have a natural immunity to leprosy.

Generally, keeping these pests out of your property will do. You might have to call for professional assistance to have the desired impact you seek.

  • Tell-Tale Signs of Armadillos

Often, people learn of their armadillo problems when they suddenly find one or more.

Sometimes, you might find signs of their activity that require further probing to identify the problem. Some useful tips for identifying armadillos include searching for burrows around your yard and foundation area.

Also, vegetation provides adequate cover for these creatures.

You might find patched sections of your lawn too. Even after noticing these signs, you’ll need to call for expert removal of these animals from your yard.

  • How useful are DIY Techniques for Controlling Armadillos?

Not everyone will find DIY techniques rewarding.

Also, such methods aren’t ideal for all seasons and animals as you might be untrained to handle certain wildlife creatures. Luckily, armadillos aren’t known to be aggressive and might be removed without any incidences.

However, due to the likely spread of disease and other uncertainties, it’s best to let the pros handle the job. All you have to do is call pest control and point the way.

Your yard and surroundings are thoroughly inspected, and armadillo burrows are identified for further probing and removal.

  • Having your Yard Fenced might help.

You don’t have to wait until you experience an armadillo problem before acting.

You can simply adopt a preventive approach by installing a fence around your yard. To avoid armadillos burrowing underneath, have the fence penetrate a few inches below the soil.

You might also want to consult a pest technician to help with preventive tips on keeping out armadillos.

  • Some People May have Tolerance for Armadillos.

People have varying tolerance levels to pest presence.

Ordinarily, armadillos won’t cause much havoc apart from burrowing and causing damage to vegetation, among other things. As long as they don’t cause structural damage, some people might find it okay.

So, understanding your tolerance level goes a long way in determining what actions are taken. In winter, you won’t have any business dealing with outdoor pests.

Although they don’t hibernate, armadillos find a way to stay out of sight for the most part.

  • You’re Better off Dealing with Wildlife Services

Any wildlife issues you have is best channeled to the right source.

Wildlife control services exist to handle problems such as yours. This is the most convenient way to have the problem resolved.

Armadillos do not hibernate but have a tolerance for moderate temperatures. We’ve also seen the different ways to handle this problem, including things to look out for and risks posed through exposure.

This information helps you make a decision on what’s best for your situation.

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