Mammals
Giant Armadillo
Priodontes maximus · also called giant armadillos
Tearing into a termite mound with powerful front claws, a giant armadillo feeds using a mouth that can hold up to around 100 teeth, the largest armadillo species alive and a digger capable of excavating burrows large enough for a person to crawl into.
Overview
The giant armadillo, Priodontes maximus, is a Vulnerable mammal native to rainforest and grassland habitat across South America. Its status as the largest living armadillo species, exceptionally high tooth count, and role as an important ecosystem engineer through its substantial burrows make it one of the most ecologically significant armadillo species found anywhere.
A digger that builds for others too
The giant armadillo’s large, substantial burrows don’t just serve the armadillo itself, they become valuable shelter for numerous other species long after the original occupant has moved on, making this solitary digger an unusually generous presence within its ecosystem.
Status
Vulnerable, with a declining population threatened by hunting and habitat loss across its range in South America.
Giant Armadillo: common questions
How big does the giant armadillo get?
It is the largest living armadillo species, considerably bigger than its smaller relatives found across the Americas.
How many teeth does a giant armadillo have?
It can carry up to around 100 teeth, among the highest tooth counts of any land mammal, used for processing the ants and termites it eats.
Why are giant armadillo burrows important to other animals?
Its large, substantial burrows are frequently reused by numerous other species after the armadillo moves on, making it an important ecosystem engineer that provides shelter for a range of wildlife.
Why is the giant armadillo vulnerable?
Its population is declining due to hunting and ongoing habitat loss across its range in South America.