That is the Latin name for the common, pesky, armadillo. If you do not live in the rural south (or even semi-rural), you are probably not aware of what a problem these guys can be. They come calling after the sun goes down, and they then proceed to dig up anything and everything. They frequently uproot huge plants and bushes while looking for their dinner of grubs and worms.
After hearing my dad talk about his regular success in trapping armadillos in his Havahart trap, I broke down and ordered the one he recommended. I assigned James the job of family dillo trapper (and put a monetary bounty on the critters as incentive... hey, I'm sick of loosing plants!) and today was his first success! He is SO excited! Now we just have to relocate this fellow a few miles down the road and away from people. (I know the perfect spot, complete with a water source near by!)
I do feel slightly "Beverly Hillbilly-ish" when I say this, but we are so proud of our young trapper! ;-)
**PS ~ Chip has chimed in on the armadillo thing with a post of his own. Beware! By reading his post you will get a glimpse into how strange we really are around here!




