Armadillos and Health Risks: What Every Florida Resident Should Know

Florida’s warm, humid climate and soft soil make it a haven not just for people—but for armadillos, too. These armor-plated diggers are increasingly being spotted in suburban neighborhoods, gardens, and even beneath the foundations of homes. While they may appear harmless or even a little quirky, their presence can lead to real problems. That’s why armadillo removal has become an essential service for many Florida homeowners who want to protect their health and property.

Although they aren't aggressive animals, armadillos pose more risks than most people realize. Their digging habits can cause significant structural damage, and even more concerning, they are known carriers of diseases that can affect humans and pets.

Why Armadillos Are Attracted to Florida Properties

Armadillos thrive in Florida because of the moist, warm environment and abundant food sources like grubs, beetles, and earthworms. Your well-kept lawn or garden is prime hunting ground. As they dig for food, armadillos leave behind holes, uproot plants, and create burrows that can threaten the stability of driveways, patios, and foundations.

Because they are nocturnal and relatively quiet, infestations can go unnoticed—until the damage is done. That’s why early detection and professional armadillo removal are critical. Licensed wildlife experts not only trap and relocate armadillos humanely, but also help prevent them from returning by securing entry points and offering landscape modification tips.

The Health Risks Armadillos Pose

1. Leprosy (Hansen’s Disease)
One of the most concerning—and lesser-known—health risks associated with armadillos is leprosy. These animals are among the only known non-human carriers of Mycobacterium leprae, the bacterium that causes the disease.

Though the risk of transmission is low, there have been documented cases in Florida and other southern states where humans contracted leprosy after direct or indirect contact with armadillos.

You could be at risk if:

  • You handle an armadillo (alive or dead) without protective gear

  • You touch contaminated soil where an armadillo has burrowed or defecated

  • Pets come into contact with infected areas and bring bacteria into the home

2. Salmonella and Other Bacterial Infections
Like many wild animals, armadillos can carry Salmonella, especially in their droppings. When they dig or defecate near homes or gardens, the bacteria can contaminate the soil or surfaces. Touching contaminated areas or consuming unwashed produce grown in the soil can lead to serious gastrointestinal illness.

3. Fleas, Ticks, and Other Parasites
Armadillos often harbor fleas, ticks, and mites—all of which can latch onto pets or humans and transmit diseases like:

  • Lyme disease

  • Rocky Mountain spotted fever

  • Ehrlichiosis

This makes armadillo removal not just a matter of property protection, but also public health.

When to Call for Armadillo Removal

If you notice:

  • Small, cone-shaped holes in your yard

  • Burrows near your foundation or porch

  • Sightings of armadillos at night

  • Pets digging or reacting to something underground

…it’s time to call in professionals for safe, humane armadillo removal. Licensed wildlife experts in Florida are trained to relocate armadillos without violating local wildlife laws and can help ensure your yard and home stay safe and pest-free.

Final Thoughts

While armadillos may not seem like a threat at first glance, their ability to cause property damage and spread disease makes them a serious concern for Florida homeowners. Understanding the risks and acting early with professional armadillo removal can protect your home, your family, and your peace of mind.

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