Armadillo on the loose in Eastbourne after dramatic escape

The armadillo is able to run at quite a pace, its owner said (stock image) <i>(Image: Dawn Peek via Unsplash)</i>
The armadillo is able to run at quite a pace, its owner said (stock image) (Image: Dawn Peek via Unsplash)
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An armadillo is on the loose after breaking down the door of its own home. 

The small creature, named Stanley, has escaped from Animal Magics in Eastbourne.  

The company does children's birthday parties, school visits and other experiences, such as de-stress sessions for students.  

Co-owner of the company Chris told the BBC Stanley "can run pretty fast". 

He added: "He lives in a log cabin with an aviary attached to it. Armadillos are quite destructive and he managed to force the door open." 

Chris said that while Stanley is very friendly, if you do spot him, it's best not to pick him up, as he may bite.  

Weighing in at around 3-4kg and 40cm long, Stanley is quite bold, and so won't be hiding away.  

He was last spotted on the Cuckoo trail, which runs between Heathfield and Polegate.  

Chris said he was specifically seen near Knights Farm Shop, and may have been drawn to the food smells there.  

Stanley could also be drawn to the nearby East Sussex College Eastbourne campus for the same reason. 

He eats insects, fruits, eggs, crickets, and cockroaches. 

Chris said he was confused as to why Stanley left, given he had seemed perfectly happy.

"I don't know if it's the changing weather that's made him leave the garden, but he can't have been on walkabout that long," he added. 

If you happen to spot the little armadillo running about, Chris can be reached on 07848 101127. 

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