Say What? Armadillos Are Moving to Michigan?

If you spot an armadillo crossing the street in Michigan, don’t panic. Well…maybe panic a little. I mean, armadillos in Michigan? That’s never been a thing.

Apparently, these little armored critters are moving north, and you might start seeing them more often than you think. According to MLive, a recent U.S. Geological Survey study shows the nine-banded armadillo, usually found in southwestern Indiana, has been creeping north.

Why Armadillos Could Eventually Reach Michigan

Since 2013, armadillo sightings in northern Indiana have been increasing, and experts say some of these little guys are starting to settle closer to Michigan. I know, the thought of armadillos living in Michigan is a weird one, especially when you factor in our brutal winters, which we’ll get to shortly.

Sightings are definitely on the rise, with nearly 80% of reports happening between 2017 and 2021. Armadillos are now “established” in 17 states, including Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, and Kentucky.

Why Armadillos Aren't in Michigan...Yet

Michigan has seen a few random sightings, but our brutal winters are the real deal. These little guys have almost no fur, barely any fat, and run pretty cold, so long stretches of freezing temps can wipe them out. I’m no expert, but it sounds like maybe they’re slowly figuring out how to handle cooler temps.

Experts say they could make it here from Indiana or northeast Illinois, but the cold will definitely slow them down. They can survive short bursts of extreme chill by hiding in burrows. So while they’re not really a Michigan thing yet, don’t be totally shocked if you spot one someday.