Let's Talk Armadillos

From birds to camels to donkeys, the world of vintage decor is chock-full of brass animal figurines. Recently, we added a rather uncommon creature to our collection: a brass armadillo. 

Join us in celebrating these charming and unique animals as we delve into three fascinating armadillo species:

Pink Fairy Armadillo

Photo: Daderot, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

As the smallest armadillo on earth, the pink fairy armadillo can be found digging tiny tunnels through the dry plains of central Argentina. This lil’ babe fits perfectly in the palm of your hand, reaching anywhere from 3 to 6 inches in length by adulthood, and weighing just about 4 ounces. The pink fairy armadillo’s distinct color is a result of its blood vessels showing through its pale shell.

Nine-Banded Armadillo

Photo: http://www.birdphotos.com, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

If you’ve ever seen an armadillo in the wild in North America, it was most likely a nine-banded armadillo. As its name implies, this armadillo has nine bands on its armor that allow for ample flexibility and movement as it roams its habitat. Perhaps the most amazing fact about this species is that, without fail, it always gets pregnant with identical quadruplets. The reason for this curious phenomenon is unknown. 

Screaming Hairy Armadillo

Photo:  Rawpixel Ltd, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This excellently-named armadillo species is known for its distinct vocalizations and the cute tufts of hair that peek out from beneath its armor. They live in the sands of the Monte desert in South America, weigh about 2 pounds, and grow to about 2 feet long (including their tail). Beyond that, the screaming hairy armadillos can also provide your next musical project with a perfect name.