Record Number of Armadillos Spotted In North Carolina

Did you know there are armadillos in North Carolina? I honestly had no idea there lived in this area. But turns out they are and the population has been growing….

Melanie Day

Published Dec 20, 2021 12:01 PM EST

(Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)

Did you know there are armadillos in North Carolina? I honestly had no idea there lived in this area. But turns out they are and the population has been growing. The reported sightings of armadillos hit a record number in November of 2021. That comes from the NC Armadillo Project. But what constitutes a record number? In this case seven. The previous record set in May of this year was 5. The animals were seen for the first time in both Cleveland and Graham County. Additionally, they appeared in Buncombe, Cleveland, Graham, Henderson, and Jackson county.

You should not be concerned if you spot one, while they have been known to carry diseases the NCWRC says this exposure can be avoided by wearing gloves. They can cause damage by digging up gardens and plants looking for insects and other food. But the animals are generally not a threat to humans.

Get more info on Armadillos in North Carolina here

GALLERY: List of Animals Native to North Carolina

As found by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission

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Melanie DayWriter

Melanie Day is a graduate of North Carolina State University. She has worked for Beasley since 2012 in a variety of behind-the-scenes roles in both digital and promotions. Melanie writes about a diverse range of topics some of her favorites include travel, restaurants, Taylor Swift, and college athletics. When not at work you'll find her at a country concert or NC State sporting event.