On a farm with alpacas, goats, cattle and sheep, you kind of expect a lot of hay-munching. And then there's Nugget. Nugget is our armadillo, and Nugget does not care about your hay. Not one bit. Nugget has become a fan favorite, and once you meet this little armored wonder, you'll see why.
Wait, an armadillo?
Yep! It's one of the most common reactions we get. People don't expect to see an armadillo in western Wisconsin, and honestly, that's part of the fun. Armadillos are native to the Americas, mostly in warmer regions, and they are some of the most unusual mammals on the planet.
Built-in armor
The word "armadillo" comes from Spanish and means "little armored one," which is pretty much the perfect name. Armadillos are the only living mammals with a shell. That shell is made of bony plates covered in a tough outer layer, kind of like a suit of armor that grows with them.
And no, not every armadillo can roll into a perfect ball. But Nugget can! Nugget is a three-banded armadillo, one of the few kinds of armadillo that can roll up into a complete ball. Most other armadillos rely on their armor, quick digging skills and a good hiding spot instead.
A nose that knows
Armadillos don't have great eyesight, but their sense of smell is fantastic. They use their noses to sniff out food, often digging with their strong front claws. Watch for that little snout working overtime. It's very cute and very serious business.
Bugs, not hay
Here's where Nugget really stands out from the crowd. While so many of our animals are grazers, armadillos are mostly insect eaters. In the wild, they dig for beetles, grubs, ants and other creepy-crawlies. So when we talk about hay season on the farm, Nugget is happily sitting that conversation out.
Fun armadillo facts
- Armadillos have very low body temperatures for mammals, which is why they prefer warmer climates.
- They're excellent diggers and can dig surprisingly fast.
- Some armadillos can hold their breath for several minutes.
- They're relatives of sloths and anteaters.
Why people love Nugget
Nugget is proof that the smallest animals on the farm can steal the show. Visitors are always fascinated by Nugget's armor, little face and busy, curious personality. Kids especially can't get enough. Nugget is one of more than 130 animals across 14 species that call Eagle Eye Farm home, and definitely one of the most unique.
Come say hi
Want to meet Nugget and the rest of the gang? Plan your visit on our farm tours page. Just don't offer Nugget any hay. You've been warned.
