Defense WOW!
Bite-Proof Armor
Armadillos wear layers of protein-covered bones called scutes like armor for protection from the teeth and venom of predators. The armor also works like an exoskeleton, protecting them from rocky surfaces and thorns. Armadillos do not have scutes on their abdomens, so they often sleep in curled-up positions.
            In some places, armadillos are an invasive species, and have damaged wildlife by eating turtle and quail eggs. Armadillos also damage the environment by digging many holes when foraging for beetles.
Stand Back!
Skunks defend themselves with a smelly, oily liquid that comes from glands under their tails. Skunks can aim their spray more than ten feet away! Skunks use their spray with care - they would rather just threaten to spray because it takes their bodies several days to make more. Skunks often stay in their dens while their bodies make more spray.

---

Excerpted from Animals That Make Me Say Wow! (National Wildlife Federation) by Dawn Cusick, National Wildlife Federation Staff
All rights reserved by the original copyright owners. Excerpts are provided for display purposes only and may not be reproduced, reprinted or distributed without the written permission of the publisher.