An Oklahoma family’s home security footage went viral after their Golden Retriever, Bingo, carried a live armadillo into their residence. According to homeowner Alycia Napier, who documented the June 2024 incident on Instagram, the dog bypassed his owners and entered the home with the wild animal in his mouth, prompting a frantic response from the children present. The armadillo eventually escaped to a neighbor’s property unharmed.
Why are armadillos increasingly appearing in residential areas?
Armadillos are expanding their range northward and encroaching on human-inhabited zones, primarily due to their search for food. According to Napier, these creatures have been “tearing up” her property in Allen for several months. Wildlife experts note that armadillos are nocturnal foragers that dig into lawns to feed on grubs and insects, which often puts them in direct contact with domestic pets and homeowners.
The nine-banded armadillo, the species most common in the United States, has been steadily moving north from Texas and Louisiana for decades, with sightings now recorded as far north as Nebraska and Illinois.
What are the risks of dogs interacting with armadillos?
Veterinarians often warn against letting dogs engage with armadillos due to potential health risks. While the incident in Oklahoma resulted in no physical harm to the dog or the armadillo, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that armadillos are one of the few animals known to carry Mycobacterium leprae, the bacteria that causes Hansen’s disease, or leprosy, in humans. Although the risk of transmission from a brief encounter is low, physical contact or bites can lead to other bacterial infections.
How can homeowners deter armadillos from their yards?
To discourage armadillos from damaging property, wildlife management agencies recommend removing the food sources that attract them. This includes applying insecticides to reduce the population of grubs and beetles in the lawn. According to the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, installing underground fencing—buried at least 18 to 24 inches deep—is the most effective physical barrier to prevent the animals from burrowing under structures.
If you encounter an armadillo on your property, do not attempt to handle it. Keep children and pets inside and contact a local professional wildlife removal service to relocate the animal safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can armadillos bite or scratch pets?
Yes. While they are generally timid, armadillos have sharp claws used for digging and can bite if they feel threatened or cornered by a dog.
Are armadillos dangerous to humans?
Direct contact with armadillos should be avoided. The CDC advises against touching or keeping them as pets because they can carry leprosy and other zoonotic diseases.
Why did the dog bring the armadillo inside?
Golden Retrievers are a breed historically developed for retrieving game. In this instance, Napier reported that the dog seemed confused about his next move, eventually dropping the animal when prompted.
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