Glyptodons
Glyptodons were large, armored mammals that belonged to the family Glyptodontidae, closely related to armadillos. They are best known for their heavily armored bodies, which resembled those of modern armadillos but were far more robust and protective. Glyptodons thrived during the Pleistocene epoch, ranging from about 2.5 million to 10,000 years ago, and were widespread across the Americas, from North to South.
The most famous genus of glyptodons was *Doedicurus*, which included some of the largest species, reaching lengths
Glyptodons were herbivores, feeding primarily on grasses, leaves, and fruits. Their diet and body structure suggest
The decline of glyptodons is closely tied to the extinction of Pleistocene megafauna, which occurred around