Dasypus

/ˈdæsɪpəs/ noun

Definition

A genus of armadillos, particularly the nine-banded armadillo, characterized by their armored skin and thick, hairy feet.

Etymology

From Greek 'dasys' (thick, hairy) + 'pus' (foot). This is the older Latin scientific name for armadillo genera.

Kelly Says

Dasypus armadillos were one of the first animals European explorers encountered in the New World, and the word 'armadillo' itself comes from Spanish for 'little armored one!'

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