Zoogeography of the Nine-Banded Armadillo (Dasypus Novemcinctus) in the United States

Current armadillo distribution is compared with reports dating back to 1880. Documented zoogeographic events include invasion into new territory, introduction, western range contraction in response to aridity, and approach of a northern winter barrier. Zoogeographic predictions are made on the basis of current climatic trends. Invasion rates are compared to those of other mammals, and events prior to the armadillo's recent arrival in the country are discussed.