News Summary
Researchers at the University of Kentucky are investigating the northward migration of nine-banded armadillos from South America to Kentucky. Over 200 sightings have been recorded, indicating their growing presence, particularly in Western Kentucky. The study also explores the armadillos’ unique status as carriers of leprosy bacteria, with some tested positive during the research. The findings raise awareness about wildlife behavior and potential health risks associated with these animals as their population increases in the region.
Lexington, Kentucky – A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Kentucky is shedding light on the northward migration and leprosy carriage of nine-banded armadillos, which are making their way from their native South America to the southeastern United States, particularly in areas of Western Kentucky. The Kentucky Fish and Wildlife has recorded over 200 sightings of these armadillos, showing a growing trend in their presence in the region.
Primarily spotted in Western Kentucky, these armadillos have also been located in Fayette County, including a notable sighting on South Broadway in Lexington, just two blocks away from Rupp Arena. This research initiative, part of the UK Forestry and Natural Resource Science program, is led by graduate student Olivia O’Hearn and professor John Cox, who have been studying these animals since the spring of 2024.
As part of their research, the team has collected over 30 roadkill armadillos, with locations of interest including Woodford and Jessamine counties. This study aims to document the migration patterns of the nine-banded armadillos, as well as explore their unique status as carriers of leprosy bacteria. The northward migration of nine-banded armadillos has been observed since around 1850, beginning from Texas and continuing as rising temperatures alter their preferred habitats.
Researchers have identified that nine-banded armadillos are one of the few vertebrate species capable of carrying the leprosy bacteria. It is believed that this occurrence may date back to interactions with European colonists in Central and South America. In the study, out of 22 examined armadillos, three tested positive for leprosy. While in typical scenarios, 0-20% of armadillo populations may test positive, higher rates have been observed in South America, with figures ranging from 15-20%.
O’Hearn has noted that the risk of contracting leprosy from an armadillo is minimal, as it generally requires persistent contact with the animal. Nevertheless, the risk could increase in regions populated by larger numbers of armadillos. Consequently, members of the public are advised to maintain distance from these animals if encountered, and it is recommended to contact professionals for removal if armadillos wander into residential areas. Keeping armadillos as pets is discouraged due to potential health risks.
The ongoing study, expected to continue for up to four years, includes plans to live-track the armadillos to better monitor their movements. The presence of the nine-banded armadillos has also been recorded in Bernheim Forest, marking them as the 51st mammal species documented in the area. This increasing population of nine-banded armadillos is a notable development for wildlife in Kentucky and highlights the changing landscape due to climate and geographical shifts.
As researchers delve further into their study, the implications of these findings could shape understanding of wildlife behavior, disease transmission, and management strategies regarding the growing armadillo population in Kentucky.
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Additional Resources
- Kentucky.com: Know Your Kentucky
- Wikipedia: Armadillo
- WBKR: Armadillo in Kentucky
- Google Search: Kentucky armadillo migration
- WCLU Radio: Kentucky’s Armadillo Population Grows
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Armadillo
- Spectrum News: Kentucky’s Armadillo Population on the Rise
- Google News: armadillo population Kentucky
- Murray Ledger: Armadillos Are Here to Stay
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