Armadillos in North Carolina? Why NC Wildlife Commission wants you to report any sightings

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — Wildlife researchers are asking folks to maintain their eyes open for armadillos.

During the last 16 years, researchers have noticed the nine-banded armadillo in 70 North Carolina counties, together with Wake and Durham counties.

That species is native to Central and South America and has expanded its vary into the southeastern United States. The primary confirmed sighting in North Carolina was in Macon County in 2007.

In accordance with the Wildlife Fee, armadillos lack thick insulation and should dig for many of the issues they eat. Gentle winter temperatures are perfect for armadillos as a result of freezing circumstances can result in hunger or loss of life.

Because of the gentle climate in North Carolina researchers mentioned armadillos are increasing northward.

“Whether or not armadillos proceed spreading past their present vary shall be largely decided by local weather,” in keeping with Colleen Olfenbuttel, the Fee’s black bear and furbearer biologist. “The variety of counties with confirmed observations is 28, stretching from Cherokee to Dare counties. This makes it possible the armadillo is increasing its vary naturally all through North Carolina, moderately than being helped by human intervention.”

If you happen to see an armadillo, you are requested to add images by means of the I-Naturalist app or by emailing armadillo@ncwildlife.org to assist the NC Wildlife Fee hold observe of the species’ whereabouts within the state.

To study extra about armadillos click on right here.