The three-banded armadillo, also known as the Southern three-banded armadillo, is a small, armored mammal found in South America. This unique creature is often referred to by several synonyms, including the Bolivian three-banded armadillo, the Chacoan three-banded armadillo, or simply the three-banded Dasypus. Its scientific name is Dasypus novemcinctus. The three-banded armadillo is so named because it has three distinctive bands on its armored shell, which allows it to curl into a ball for protection. Being a shy and solitary creature, it is a delight to spot one of these fascinating animals in the wild.