As temperatures rise and cicadas become more prevalent in the area, it is not unusual to see an increase in armadillo sightings, especially along highways.
With the warmer weather, there is more insect activity, leading to an increase in armadillo activity as they search for insects as their primary food source, according to Dan Zarlenga from the Missouri Department of Conservation.
“We are currently experiencing an abundance of insect resources due to the emergence of 13-year periodical cicadas,” Zarlenga explains.
Coming out of a milder winter, St. Louis may have a higher armadillo population as these mammals thrive better in warmer temperatures.
While the Missouri Department of Conservation does not actively track armadillos, Zarlenga mentions that they have received reports of dead armadillo sightings along Interstate 44.
“Armadillos are not native to Missouri, so they have not been a focus for MDC, but they are starting to become naturalized wildlife as they colonize the area,” Zarlenga adds.
Zarlenga also notes that armadillo populations are increasing and spreading further north over time.
If you come across an armadillo, Zarlenga advises giving it space and avoiding attempts to capture or handle it, as with any wildlife.
Due to their poor eyesight, armadillos tend to jump up when startled.
“Unfortunately, this often leads to collisions with vehicle grills, explaining why we see many dead armadillos on roadsides,” Zarlenga explains. “While this behavior may protect them against predators in the wild, it is not helpful against moving vehicles.”
