Nine-banded Armadillo
(Adopted 1995)

The only edentate in North America. It is covered with heavy, bony armor over the head, body, and tail. Flexible bands across the middle of its body allow it to twist and turn. Strong claws enable it to dig burrows in sandy soils or streamsides. The Armadillo feeds chiefly on insects, crayfish, frogs, bird eggs, and berries. Its range has expanded recently, from Texas east to Florida and north to Missouri.