Mammals
Large Hairy Armadillo
Chaetophractus villosus
Growing long hair between its armoured plates unlike most other armadillo species, a large hairy armadillo digs extensive burrows across the open grassland and desert of the Patagonian steppe.
Overview
The large hairy armadillo, Chaetophractus villosus, is a Least Concern mammal native to grassland and desert habitat across the Patagonian steppe and surrounding regions of South America. Its distinctive hairy armour, its extensive burrowing habit, and its tolerance for disturbed and agricultural land make it one of the more adaptable and widespread armadillo species found anywhere in South America.
An armadillo built for the open steppe
While some armadillo species remain tied to specific narrow habitats, the large hairy armadillo instead thrives across a broad stretch of open Patagonian terrain, its extensive burrow systems and tolerance for disturbed land helping it remain common where other species struggle.
Status
Least Concern, remaining widespread and abundant across suitable grassland and desert habitat throughout southern South America.
Large Hairy Armadillo: common questions
Why is it called the large hairy armadillo?
This species has long hair growing between its armoured plates, a feature unusual among armadillo species and reflected directly in its common name.
How does the large hairy armadillo survive on open terrain?
This species digs extensive burrow systems used for shelter, temperature regulation, and escaping predators across the open grassland and desert habitat it inhabits.
Is the large hairy armadillo a common species?
Yes, this species is one of the more common and widespread armadillo species across its range, tolerating disturbed and agricultural land better than some other armadillo species.
When is the large hairy armadillo active?
This species is mostly active at night, foraging under cover of darkness and resting in burrows during the day.