Armadillos Are Spreading Across Missouri—Here’s Where
There are many types of wildlife sightings that are on the rise in Missouri, but none seem to be increasing faster than the tiny, but mighty armadillo. There is new data that reveals the locations in Missouri where these armored critters are being spotted more than any others.
Where You're Most Likely to See an Armadillo in Missouri
Gallery Credit: Canva
Honorable mentions go to the following Missouri counties full of armadillo sightings:
- Howell County
- Texas County
- Dent County
- Butler County
- Reynolds County
Why is the armadillo population suddenly rising in Missouri now?
The following conditions in Missouri make the state ideal for these curious critters to make it their home:
- Milder winters
- Expanding forest edge habitat
- Abundant insects and grubs
- Few natural predators
The armadillo population in Missouri is moving northward
The Missouri Department of Conservation chronicles the fact that you'll most likely see armadillos in the southernmost Missouri counties, but their population is expanding to the north and east. They also warn that there is concern about the fact that armadillos can carry Hansen's Disease, the bacteria that can cause leprosy, but they say the spread from animals to humans is a low risk.
Armadillos have settled into Missouri and are becoming a more common part of the wildlife ecosystem here so don't be surprised if you spot one of these tiny tanks near where you live soon.
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Gallery Credit: Google Maps Street View
