How To Get Rid Of Armadillos In My Yard Easily And Safely

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How To Get Rid Of Armadillos In My Yard Easily And Safely

Can you get rid of armadillos easily and safely? Yes, you can manage armadillo problems in your yard effectively and without harm to the animals by using a combination of prevention, deterrence, and removal methods. This guide will walk you through how to achieve successful armadillo control.

Armadillos, with their distinctive bony plates and habit of digging, can quickly turn a well-kept lawn into a minefield of shallow holes. Their burrowing activities can damage your garden, landscaping, and even the foundations of your home. But before you panic, remember that most armadillo control methods focus on making your yard less appealing to them or gently encouraging them to move on. This is often referred to as humane armadillo removal.

Why Armadillos Invade Your Yard

Armadillos are primarily looking for food and shelter. Their diet consists mainly of insects, grubs, earthworms, and other invertebrates that they unearth with their strong claws. Yards with abundant insect life, especially lawns that are frequently irrigated or have rich soil, are prime targets.

• Food Sources: Grubs, beetles, ants, termites, and earthworms are a significant attractant.
• Shelter: Armadillos dig burrows for nesting, protection from predators, and temperature regulation. Abandoned burrows from other animals, like rabbits or gophers, can also be attractive.
• Water: Access to water, whether from irrigation systems or nearby ponds, can also draw them in.

Spotting Armadillo Activity

Recognizing the signs of an armadillo infestation is the first step in armadillo control. The most obvious indicators are:

• Shallow Holes: These are typically cone-shaped and about 1-2 inches in diameter, left behind as the armadillo probes the soil for food.
• Larger Burrows: These can be 4-7 inches wide and 1-2 feet deep, often found near building foundations, under sheds, woodpiles, or dense vegetation.
• Damaged Lawns: Areas of upturned soil and disrupted grass indicate active foraging.

Making Your Yard Less Inviting: Deterring Armadillos

The most effective long-term strategy for armadillo control involves deterring armadillos from making your yard their home. This means removing what attracts them in the first place and creating an environment they find unpleasant.

Managing Food Sources

Reducing the insect population in your lawn directly impacts the armadillo’s food supply.

• Pest Control: Address grub and insect infestations promptly. Consider using beneficial nematodes or insecticidal soaps, which are generally less harmful to the environment and other wildlife.
• Compost Management: Keep compost piles covered and turned regularly. Armadillos love digging through them for tasty morsels.
• Watering Habits: Avoid overwatering your lawn, as moist soil encourages earthworms and grubs.

Eliminating Shelter Opportunities

Armadillos seek safe places to hide and nest. Removing these options makes your yard less appealing.

• Clear Debris: Remove woodpiles, leaf litter, overgrown vegetation, and any other potential hiding spots or burrowing areas.
• Secure Foundations: Seal any cracks or openings in foundations of homes, sheds, or garages. Use wire mesh or concrete.
• Block Access: Cover crawl spaces and the areas beneath decks and porches securely.

Natural Armadillo Repellent Options

Several natural substances can act as an armadillo repellent, making your yard less desirable.

• Castor Oil: This is a popular and effective natural repellent. You can buy castor oil and mix it with water and a little dish soap to create a spray. Apply it liberally to the lawn and garden areas where armadillos are active. Reapply after rain.
• Garlic and Pepper Sprays: A mixture of garlic, cayenne pepper, and water can be sprayed on the ground. The strong smell and taste can deter them.
• Coffee Grounds: Some anecdotal evidence suggests that scattering used coffee grounds can deter armadillos. They may dislike the smell or texture.
• Commercial Repellents: Various commercial armadillo repellent products are available, often containing ingredients like castor oil or essential oils. Always follow product instructions carefully.

Physical Barriers: Armadillo Exclusion and Proofing

Creating physical barriers is a highly effective way to prevent armadillos from accessing specific areas or your entire yard. This falls under armadillo exclusion and armadillo proofing.

Fencing

A well-designed fence is a significant deterrent.

• Material: Use sturdy wire mesh, like chicken wire or hardware cloth, with openings no larger than 1 inch.
• Depth: Bury the mesh at least 12 inches deep into the ground. This is crucial because armadillos are excellent diggers and will try to go underneath.
• Height: The fence should be at least 18-24 inches tall above ground.
• Angled Outward: For maximum effectiveness, bend the bottom 6 inches of the mesh outward at a 90-degree angle and bury it. This makes it harder for them to dig under and provides a better barrier.

Burying Wire Mesh

For areas that cannot be fenced entirely, consider burying wire mesh along garden beds, under decks, or around specific structures. This creates an underground barrier that discourages burrowing.

Sealing Entry Points

As mentioned earlier, sealing off potential entry points to buildings is a key aspect of armadillo exclusion. Check for gaps around pipes, vents, and along the base of structures. Use materials like metal flashing or concrete to seal these openings permanently.

Live Trapping: Humane Armadillo Removal

When deterrence and exclusion aren’t enough, live trapping can be an option for humane armadillo removal. This involves capturing the armadillo without harming it and relocating it.

Choosing the Right Trap

• Size: Select a trap that is long enough for the armadillo to enter completely without being cramped, typically around 30-36 inches long and 10-12 inches wide and high.
• Type: Havahart traps or similar live animal traps are ideal. Ensure the trap door is secure once activated.

Baiting the Trap

• Effective Baits: Armadillos are attracted to insects. Try using earthworms, grubs, or canned pet food (especially cat food with fish). Some people have success with overripe fruit or mealworms.
• Placement: Place the bait further inside the trap to ensure the armadillo triggers the door mechanism.

Trap Placement and Handling

• Location: Set the trap in areas where you frequently see armadillo activity or near their burrows.
• Covering: Cover the trap loosely with a tarp or old blanket. This makes the trap feel more secure and less exposed to the armadillo, increasing the chance of capture.
• Checking Frequently: It is crucial to check live traps at least twice a day, ideally in the early morning and late afternoon. Leaving an animal trapped for extended periods can cause stress, dehydration, or injury.

Relocation Considerations

• Legality: Check your local wildlife regulations regarding trapping and relocating armadillos. Some areas have specific rules or may prohibit relocation.
• Distance: If you are permitted to relocate, choose a suitable habitat at least 5-10 miles away from your property. Ensure the new location has a water source and potential food, but avoid areas that are already heavily populated with wildlife or are near other residential areas where they could become a nuisance again.
• Release: Release the armadillo gently and quietly.

DIY Armadillo Traps

Creating DIY armadillo traps can be a cost-effective solution. A common design involves using a large plastic bin or a modified burrow.

Simple Bin Trap

1. Dig a Hole: Dig a hole in the ground slightly larger and deeper than a large plastic storage bin.
2. Position the Bin: Place the bin into the hole so its rim is flush with the ground surface.
3. Camouflage: Cover the edges of the bin with soil and leaves to make it blend in.
4. Bait: Place bait (worms, grubs) around the opening of the bin and slightly inside.
5. How it Works: The armadillo, attracted by the bait, walks towards the opening. It may fall into the smooth-sided bin and be unable to climb out.

Important Note: Always ensure your DIY traps are checked frequently to adhere to humane armadillo removal practices.

When to Call Professionals: Professional Armadillo Extermination

In severe cases, or if you are uncomfortable handling the situation yourself, it may be necessary to consider professional armadillo extermination. While the term “extermination” might sound harsh, professionals often prioritize humane removal and exclusion.

Reasons to Hire a Professional:

• Persistent Problems: If you’ve tried various methods without success, a professional can identify the root cause.
• Difficult Access: Burrows under foundations or in hard-to-reach areas might require professional expertise.
• Large Infestations: Multiple armadillos or extensive burrowing can be overwhelming for a homeowner.
• Safety Concerns: Professionals have the equipment and knowledge to handle animals safely.

What to Expect from Professionals:

• Assessment: They will assess the extent of the problem, locate burrows, and identify attractants.
• Humane Trapping: Most reputable wildlife control services focus on humane armadillo removal through live trapping and relocation.
• Exclusion Services: They can install robust armadillo proofing measures, such as buried fencing or sealing entry points.
• Habitat Modification Advice: Professionals can offer tailored advice on preventing armadillos long-term by modifying your yard’s environment.

Important Note: When hiring professionals, inquire about their methods and ensure they practice humane armadillo removal. Avoid services that offer lethal control unless absolutely necessary and legally permitted.

Addressing Armadillo Burrows

Once armadillos are removed or deterred, you’ll need to deal with the resulting armadillo burrow removal.

• Filling Burrows: Fill any remaining burrows with soil and tamp it down firmly. This prevents them from being used by other animals and helps stabilize the ground.
• Monitoring: Keep an eye on the filled areas for a few weeks to ensure no new burrowing activity occurs.
• Repairing Damage: Repair any lawn damage or structural issues caused by the burrowing.

Long-Term Prevention Strategies

Preventing armadillos from returning is as important as removing them in the first place. Consistent application of these methods will keep your yard safe.

• Maintain a Clean Yard: Regularly clear away leaf litter, brush, and debris.
• Regularly Inspect Your Property: Look for potential entry points or attractants and address them promptly.
• Consistent Deterrence: Continue using armadillo repellent methods, especially during peak activity seasons.
• Secure Outdoor Structures: Ensure compost bins are covered and sheds or decks are sealed.
• Limit Outdoor Lighting at Night: Bright lights can attract insects, which in turn attract armadillos. Consider motion-activated lights instead.

Armadillo Damage and Potential Risks

While not aggressive, armadillos can cause damage that might pose risks:

• Property Damage: Burrowing near foundations can weaken structures. They can also damage irrigation systems and underground cables.
• Health Concerns: Armadillos can carry certain diseases, such as leprosy (though transmission to humans is extremely rare). Their droppings can also contaminate areas. It’s advisable to wear gloves when dealing with their waste or near burrows.
• Tripping Hazards: The holes they dig can be a tripping hazard for people and pets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Will armadillos hurt my pets?
Armadillos are generally shy and avoid confrontation. They will typically try to flee rather than fight. However, if cornered, they can scratch or bite defensively. It’s best to keep pets supervised when armadillos are present and discourage them from interacting with the animals.

Q2: Can I kill an armadillo?
While lethal methods exist, they are generally not recommended due to ethical concerns and the potential for exacerbating the problem if not done correctly. Furthermore, local wildlife laws may restrict or prohibit killing certain species. Focusing on humane armadillo removal and armadillo exclusion is the preferred approach.

Q3: How long does it take to get rid of armadillos?
The time it takes to manage an armadillo problem varies. Deterring armadillos through habitat modification can take time to show results. Trapping and relocation might be quicker for individual animals, but preventing armadillos from returning requires ongoing effort.

Q4: What if an armadillo is under my house?
If an armadillo has burrowed under your house or foundation, it’s crucial to address this promptly. Sealing off entry points with sturdy mesh after ensuring the armadillo is out is vital. Professionals can help assess the damage and safely encourage the animal to leave or remove it.

Q5: Are armadillos nocturnal?
Armadillos are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. However, they can also be seen foraging during dawn and dusk, and sometimes even during the day, especially on overcast or cooler days.

Q6: What is the best armadillo repellent?
The most effective armadillo repellent often involves a combination of methods. Castor oil-based repellents and habitat modification (removing food and shelter) are generally considered highly effective.

Q7: Do armadillos hibernate?
No, armadillos do not hibernate. They remain active throughout the year, though their activity levels may decrease during colder periods.

Q8: Is armadillo burrow removal dangerous?
Armadillo burrow removal itself is generally not dangerous, but caution should be exercised. Wear gloves when filling burrows and be aware of potential tripping hazards. If a burrow is extensive or near a foundation, it’s wise to consult a professional.

By implementing these strategies, you can effectively manage armadillo activity in your yard, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable outdoor space. Remember that patience and consistency are key to successful armadillo control.