Audubon Zoo welcomes twin screaming hairy armadillos

NEW ORLEANS ( WGNO ) — The Audubon Zoo has welcomed twins!

The births of twin screaming hairy armadillo pups were announced on Monday, May 20.

Audubon officials say the pups, who were born in February, are the first to be born in North America since 2018. They are native to South America and got their names because of the hair that covers their bodies and the sound they make when threatened.

The two are currently housed in the Zoo’s Nocturnal House with their mom, Dillo, and dad, Chaco, who came to the zoo in fall 2023. Chaco has been separated from the pups as they are under their mother’s care.

Audubon officials said the pups are eating solid foods such as bugs, fruits and vegetables. The species is known to go long periods of time without drinking because they get moisture from the plants they eat.

Once they are strong, Audubon officials say they will be moved to a new home to join their families.

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