Screaming Hairy Armadillo
Chaetophractus vellerosus
The screaming hairy armadillo gets its name from the loud, high-pitched scream it makes when threatened. It is one of the smaller armadillo species, usually 10–15 inches long with a lifespan of 10–15 years in human care. Native to Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay, and parts of Chile, it lives in dry grasslands, deserts, and scrub regions.
They are solitary, highly active diggers, and primarily nocturnal/crepuscular. Their body is covered in long hairs that provide warmth and help catch sand and dirt when digging. Their scream serves as a defense tactic.
Fun facts:
– Excellent diggers that can burrow extremely fast
– Known to store food in burrows
– One of the most vocal armadillo species
ENCLOSURE
Provide a spacious, dig-friendly setup. Minimum 8 ft x 6 ft indoor pen; outdoor pens should be larger. They require deep substrate for digging—cypress mulch, coconut husk, and sand/soil mixes are ideal and safe.
Temps:
– Basking area: 90–95°F
– Cool side: 70–75°F
– Ambient: mid-70s
– Humidity: low (20–40%)
– UVB: Not required but beneficial
They tolerate cool nights down to the mid-50s, but optimal range is 70–85°F. They can tolerate heat up to the low 90s if shaded and provided with deep substrate or burrows.
DIET & HYDRATION
They are omnivores with insect-heavy diets.
Weekly Schedule (adult):
– Daily: Insects (mealworms, dubias, crickets) 10–20% of body weight per day
– 3–4x/week: High-quality omnivore or insectivore diet (Mazuri Insectivore/Mazuri Omnivore)
– 2–3x/week: Veggies (greens, squash, carrots)
– Fruits: 1–2x/week max (treat only)
Food categories:
Staples: insects, Mazuri omnivore/insectivore, scrambled eggs, cooked chicken, leafy greens
Treats: berries, melon, pumpkin, sweet potato
No Feed/Toxic: avocado, onion, chocolate, citrus, processed foods
Hydration: Fresh water in a heavy, tip-proof bowl. They do not drink excessively but must always have access.
Supplementation: Calcium w/ D3 once weekly unless using UVB. A multivitamin once weekly is helpful.
Behavior notes: They naturally dig and hunt; hiding food or doing scatter feeding helps reduce stress.
HEALTH
Concerns:
– Leprosy bacteria (rare but noted in some armadillo species; always wash after contact)
– Internal parasites (common in soil-digging mammals)
– Dermatitis, shell issues, and respiratory infections in humid environments
– Obesity if fed too many fruits or fatty insects
Low humidity and correct temperatures are critical.
HANDLING
Screaming hairy armadillos can be skittish but usually tame with regular interaction. They may vocalize when picked up. Avoid excessive handling—they can stress if over-restrained.
Handling tips:
– Scoop from underneath; never grab the tail
– Support the body; let them feel secure
– Avoid loud noises that may trigger screaming
– Do not flip them on their back except for medical checks
For shows:
They are not ideal show animals due to:
– Tendency to dig/try to escape
– Potential to scream loudly
– Can carry soil-based bacteria
– Not reliably handleable for large crowds
– Can be stressed by fast movement/kids
They do not meet most show-animal requirements.