Watching an armadillo move through open water is not something most people would predict. But according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, certain species are "surprisingly adept swimmers."
In a viral Reddit video, an unexpected sight of an armadillo frolicking in water sparked a discussion about the creature.
What happened?
The clip was posted in the r/FunnyAnimals subreddit.
"My Dad just took this video - a swimming armadillo!" the poster wrote.
(Click here if the embedded video does not appear.)
In the clip, the armadillo is seen splashing in a shallow pool of water about the size of a bird bath.
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Why does it matter?
Armadillos are usually envisioned as ground-dwelling animals, moving over land with their tough outer armor as protection. However, they are able to handle water in ways many people do not realize.
For example, they can also gulp air to expand their intestines and help themselves float, or they can travel along the bottom rather than remain on the surface, according to Rainforest Alliance.
Moments like these can make wild animals more visible and spark appreciation for abilities or behaviors that many people rarely get to see.
What can I do?
Sharing a photo or video can get people interested in nearby ecosystems, but it is still important not to promote getting too close or pursuing animals just to capture better footage.
As for armadillos, some Reddit users were shocked to learn they liked the water, even though others pushed back on the description of the armadillo swimming and described this one as bathing.
"A Swimadillo!" one person wrote.
"Reminds me of my chinchilla taking a dust bath," another said.
A third Reddit user said, "Poor little guy must have been roasting!"
The OP responded, "He's been doing this for about a week now. It IS hot."
Another user commented, "Keep that water topped up for him!"
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