An armadillo is protected by plates that overlap to make body and head armor. The plates are made of bone, wrapped in a leathery skin and separated by soft skin that allows the armadillo to bend. Despite their resemblance to armored tanks, armadillos are vulnerable to predation. Black bears, alligators, coyotes, and humans prey on adults, while the smaller, softer juveniles are eaten by hawks and eagles. When threatened, some species roll up in a ball to protect their unarmored bellies. The sharp claws of armadillos may also help them repel predators. Their claws are specialized for digging burrows. When cornered, an armadillo will retreat to its burrow and brace itself against the sides. Its tail is long and slippery, making it a challenge for a predator to pull it out. Armadillos also take advantage of their shrubby habitats by dashing into thorny bushes to take cover. They are surprisingly fast runners on their short legs.