American Scientist

Observant travelers passing through the southern U.S. may be struck by the unusual appearance of the nine-banded armadillo (Dasypus novemcinctus). This animal, which is about three-quarters of a meter long, can be identified by the leathery plates of armor that cover it nearly from the tip of its nose to the end of its tail. It also has a series of transverse plates that wrap around its midsection, giving it a banded look. Odd as its appearance may be, though, a nine-banded armadillo is even more unusual in its reproductive habits.