Asheville, North Carolina, October 12, 2025
News Summary
The nine-banded armadillo population is on the rise in North Carolina, with reported sightings in over 28 counties. Initially found in 2007, this species has now spread across the state, adapting to new environments while affecting local ecosystems. Despite their ecological benefits, including insect control and soil aeration, the armadillos’ presence can lead to property damage and potential disease transmission. Wildlife experts stress the importance of reporting sightings as the species continues its expansion.
Asheville, North Carolina – Recent reports from the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) confirm that the population of nine-banded armadillos is steadily spreading across the state. The current sightings have been reported in more than 28 counties, with officials receiving approximately 900 reports of armadillo sightings spanning from western Cherokee County to coastal Dare County.
Initially identified in 2007 in Macon County, close to the Georgia border, the nine-banded armadillo has established a noticeable presence in North Carolina. The most recent verified sightings occurred in Wilkes and Madison counties. The highest density of armadillo sightings is located near the border where North Carolina meets Georgia and South Carolina, indicating their expanding range.
Significantly, Madison County’s close proximity to Tennessee suggests the species’ natural expansion from neighboring states, as armadillos continue to adapt to different environments. Historically, the nine-banded armadillo is originally native to Central and South America. It first crossed into Texas in 1849 and began its gradual spread across the southeastern United States, reaching western Tennessee by 1980 after crossing the Mississippi River in the early 1940s.
Among the noteworthy attributes, the nine-banded armadillo is the only armadillo species found in the United States. They are recognized for their armor-like skin, long scaly tail, and distinctive pig-like snout, which they utilize for foraging. Their primary diet includes insects, grubs, and other invertebrates, and they can often be spotted making grunting sounds while rooting through the soil. Additionally, nine-banded armadillos are part of the same taxonomic order as anteaters and sloths.
Despite being classified as nongame species, with no closed season or bag limit for hunting, nine-banded armadillos play a significant ecological role. Their behavior aids in controlling insect populations and aerating soil through their burrowing activities. Moreover, these burrows contribute shelter for other wildlife, including snakes and small rodents.
Nonetheless, the presence of nine-banded armadillos also brings about potential challenges. They are known to cause property damage through burrowing in lawns and gardens, and there is a possibility of transmitting diseases like leprosy to humans. While primarily insectivorous, they can also result in damage to certain crops.
The armadillos’ establishment in North Carolina is expected to continue evolving as climate changes may influence their expansion. Urban and agricultural developments also play a vital role in shaping their movement. Observers note that armadillos are becoming an increasingly familiar aspect of North Carolina’s wildlife, with expectations of an established population in every county in the future.
Public reports and sightings are crucial for monitoring the armadillo population. Wildlife biologists face limited resources to track them. Hence, experts encourage responsible interaction with armadillos, recommending the use of gloves when handling them.
FAQ
Where have nine-banded armadillos been spotted in North Carolina?
Armadillo sightings in North Carolina have been reported in more than 28 counties, including Buncombe.
When was the first confirmed record of the nine-banded armadillo in North Carolina?
The first confirmed record of the nine-banded armadillo in North Carolina was in 2007 in Macon County, close to the Georgia border.
What is the diet of nine-banded armadillos?
Their primary diet consists of insects, grubs, and other invertebrates.
How do nine-banded armadillos influence the environment?
Experts state that armadillos play an ecological role in controlling insect populations and aerating soil through their digging.
What potential challenges do nine-banded armadillos bring to residents?
The species can cause property damage by burrowing in lawns and gardens and may occasionally transmit diseases like leprosy to humans.
Key Features of Nine-Banded Armadillos
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Native Range | Originally from Central and South America |
| First U.S. Appearance | Came to Texas in 1849 |
| Current States | Spotted in 28 counties across North Carolina |
| Diet | Insects, grubs, and other invertebrates |
| Ecological Role | Controls insect populations and aerates soil |
| Challenges | Potential property damage and disease transmission |
| Classification | Nongame species with no closed season for hunting |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- 828 News Now
- Wikipedia: Nine-banded armadillo
- Spectrum Local News
- Google Search: nine-banded armadillo
- Charlotte Observer
- Google News: nine-banded armadillo North Carolina
- My Fox 8
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
