Armadillos and other creatures protect themselves from predators by rolling into a ball and reducing their surface area.

"Many larger creatures recognize the value of having the to the lowest degree possible surface area. Rolling into a ball is a simple just constructive form of defence force, used by creatures as diverse equally the woodlouse, the hedgehog, and the armadillo. The economy of shape is made even more than effective by adding some form of flexible armour-plating on the surface of the sphere. All the vulnerable and vital organs and limbs are tucked abroad inside the protective casing, presenting a predator with a frustrating brawl game instead of a repast." (Foy and Oxford Scientific Films 1982:21)

Terminal Updated August 18, 2016