Are armadillos turning your beautiful lawn into a minefield of holes? You’re not alone. This blog post will show you how to keep armadillos from digging in your yard safely. Can you keep armadillos out of your yard permanently? While it’s challenging to guarantee permanent exclusion, consistent and humane methods can significantly reduce their digging.
Armadillos are fascinating creatures, but their natural digging habits can be a nuisance for homeowners. Their primary goal when digging is to find food – insects like grubs, ants, and beetles. They use their sharp claws to unearth these tasty morsels, often creating a mess in the process. Understanding why they dig is the first step toward finding effective solutions.
This guide will delve into various armadillo control methods, focusing on humane armadillo exclusion and preventing armadillo damage. We’ll explore armadillo deterrents, natural armadillo repellents, and best armadillo barriers to help you stop armadillos digging and achieve armadillo proofing yard success.
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Why Armadillos Dig
Armadillos are primarily insectivores. Their diet consists of a variety of invertebrates found in the soil. This means their digging is directly linked to their search for food. They have a keen sense of smell and can detect insect larvae and other prey hidden beneath the surface.
Common Food Sources for Armadillos
- Grubs: These are the larval stage of beetles, often found in lawns.
- Ants and Termites: Armadillos will dig into ant hills and termite mounds.
- Beetle Larvae: Similar to grubs, these are a valuable food source.
- Earthworms: In some cases, earthworms can also be part of their diet.
- Small Vertebrates: Occasionally, they might consume small frogs, snakes, or eggs if readily available.
Armadillo Digging Behavior Explained
Armadillos have powerful claws designed for digging. They can excavate holes with remarkable speed. Their digging can take several forms:
- Foraging Holes: These are typically shallow holes, often just a few inches deep, made to access insects near the surface.
- Burrow Entrances: Armadillos create more extensive burrows for shelter and reproduction. These are larger and deeper than foraging holes.
- Encountering Obstacles: If an armadillo senses prey or an obstacle underground, it might dig more vigorously.
The Impact of Armadillo Digging on Yards
The most obvious impact is the unsightly holes left behind. These can:
- Damage Lawns: Large areas of turf can be dug up, making the yard look unkempt.
- Create Tripping Hazards: The holes can be a danger to people and pets, especially in the dark.
- Harm Plants: Delicate plant roots can be disturbed or exposed by armadillo digging.
- Damage Structures: In some instances, armadillos might dig near building foundations or under sheds, potentially causing structural issues.
Effective Armadillo Deterrents
Once you understand why armadillos dig, you can implement strategies to deter them. The goal is to make your yard less appealing to them.
Natural Armadillo Repellents
Many homeowners prefer natural solutions. Several scents and substances are known to be unpleasant to armadillos.
Cayenne Pepper and Other Spicy Repellents
Armadillos, like many animals, have sensitive noses and mouths. Applying spicy substances to your lawn can be an effective deterrent.
- Cayenne Pepper: Sprinkle cayenne pepper powder liberally around areas where armadillos are digging.
- Chili Powder: Similar to cayenne, chili powder can also work.
- Hot Sauce: Some people spray diluted hot sauce or mixtures of hot sauce and water.
How to Use:
Apply these repellents after rain or watering, as water can wash them away. Reapply regularly, especially after significant rainfall. Be cautious when applying to avoid inhaling the dust or getting it in your eyes.
Garlic and Onion Sprays
The strong odor of garlic and onions can also repel armadillos.
- Garlic: Create a spray by blending garlic cloves with water and a small amount of dish soap (as an emulsifier).
- Onion: Similar to garlic, blending onions with water can create a pungent spray.
How to Use:
Strain the mixture to avoid clogging your spray bottle. Spray generously around the perimeter of your yard and on any freshly dug areas. Like spicy repellents, these need to be reapplied after rain.
Castor Oil
Castor oil is another natural repellent. It’s believed that the scent and texture are off-putting to armadillos.
- Castor Oil Mix: Mix castor oil with water and a small amount of mild liquid soap.
How to Use:
Apply this mixture around the lawn’s edge and garden beds. The soap helps the oil mix with water for even distribution.
Coffee Grounds
Some gardeners have reported success using used coffee grounds. While not a powerful repellent, the scent and texture might be unpleasant to them.
How to Use:
Spread used coffee grounds around your garden and lawn.
Other Deterrent Strategies
Beyond scent-based repellents, other methods can make your yard less attractive.
Motion-Activated Sprinklers
These devices detect movement and spray a burst of water. Armadillos are easily startled by sudden water spray and will likely avoid the area.
- Placement: Position sprinklers strategically to cover common entry points or digging spots.
- Effectiveness: They are generally effective, especially for deterring animals from broad areas.
Ultrasonic Devices
These devices emit high-frequency sounds that are meant to be unpleasant to animals but inaudible to humans.
- Varied Effectiveness: While some people find them helpful, their effectiveness can be inconsistent, and animals may eventually become accustomed to the sound.
Armadillo Proofing Yard: Creating Barriers
Physical barriers are one of the most reliable ways to stop armadillos digging. The key is to make it difficult or impossible for them to access the areas you want to protect.
Fencing as an Armadillo Barrier
Fencing is a classic method for animal exclusion. For armadillos, consider the following:
Types of Fencing
- Solid Fencing: This offers the most robust barrier.
- Wire Mesh Fencing: A sturdy wire mesh, like chicken wire or hardware cloth, is effective.
Fencing Installation for Armadillo Exclusion
The crucial element for effective armadillo fencing is proper installation to prevent them from digging under it.
- Depth: Bury the fence at least 12-18 inches deep into the ground.
- Outward L-Shape: An “L” shape buried underground, with the flange extending outwards away from the yard, makes it harder for them to dig underneath.
- Height: The fence should be at least 2 feet high to prevent them from easily climbing over.
- Material Strength: Ensure the fencing material is strong enough to withstand their digging attempts.
Modifying the Landscape
Sometimes, subtle changes to your yard’s appearance can make it less appealing.
Reducing Attractants
- Limit Insect Food Sources:
- Reduce Lawn Irrigation: Overwatering can create moist soil that attracts grubs.
- Consider Grub Control: If grubs are a major problem, investigate eco-friendly grub control methods.
- Clear Debris: Remove leaf litter, woodpiles, and dense vegetation where insects and armadillos might hide.
- Maintain a Tidy Yard: Keep grass mowed and avoid leaving piles of debris around.
Protecting Specific Areas
You might want to protect specific garden beds or structural foundations.
Garden Bed Protection
- Raised Beds: Raised garden beds can deter armadillos, especially if the sides are solid or mesh is installed around them.
- Mesh Liners: Dig a trench around garden beds and bury hardware cloth or chicken wire along the perimeter, extending a few inches above ground and several inches below.
Foundation Protection
- Clear Vegetation: Keep shrubs and plants that grow close to the foundation trimmed back. Armadillos often use these as cover.
- Fill Holes: Promptly fill any existing holes near foundations.
- Gravel or Stone Borders: A border of gravel or stones around the foundation can be a deterrent as it’s difficult for them to dig through.
Armadillo Removal and Exclusion Techniques
When deterrence and barriers aren’t enough, you might consider more direct armadillo removal or exclusion.
Humane Armadillo Exclusion
The goal is to safely remove existing armadillos and prevent new ones from entering.
Live Trapping
Live traps can be used to capture armadillos.
- Trap Placement: Place traps along known armadillo trails or near active digging sites.
- Baiting: Use bait like earthworms, grubs, or canned sardines.
- Checking Traps: Check traps frequently throughout the day to ensure the animal is not stressed or exposed to extreme weather.
- Relocation: If you capture an armadillo, relocate it to a suitable habitat far from residential areas. Check local regulations regarding wildlife relocation before proceeding. Note: Relocating wildlife can sometimes be illegal or have unintended ecological consequences.
Sealing Entry Points
Once you’ve addressed current inhabitants or are implementing barrier strategies, it’s important to seal any existing holes.
- Backfilling Holes: Use soil to fill any holes armadillos have created.
- Reinforcing Burrows: If you find a burrow entrance, especially near structures, it might need to be filled with gravel and then soil to discourage re-use.
Preventing Armadillo Damage: Long-Term Strategies
Sustainable armadillo control methods focus on making your yard unattractive over time.
Lawn Care Practices
- Aeration: Aerating your lawn can improve soil health and reduce the insect populations that armadillos seek.
- Proper Watering: Avoid overwatering, which creates moist conditions favorable to grubs.
- Dethatching: A thick layer of thatch can harbor insects. Regular dethatching can help.
Garden Maintenance
- Remove Fallen Fruit: Fallen fruit can attract insects, which in turn attract armadillos.
- Compost Management: While composting is beneficial, ensure your compost bin is secure and doesn’t become an armadillo food source itself.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for Lawn Pests
If grubs or other insects are the primary attractant, consider IPM strategies for those pests.
- Identify the Pest: Accurately identify the insect population causing the problem.
- Cultural Controls: Implement practices like proper watering and mowing heights.
- Biological Controls: Introduce natural predators or beneficial nematodes that target grubs.
- Chemical Controls (Last Resort): If necessary, use targeted pesticides judiciously, following all label instructions.
Choosing the Best Armadillo Barriers
When selecting best armadillo barriers, consider your specific needs and the effectiveness of each option.
Table: Armadillo Barrier Effectiveness
| Barrier Type | Effectiveness | Installation Difficulty | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buried Fencing | High | Moderate to High | Moderate | Requires digging; most reliable physical barrier. |
| Raised Beds | Moderate | Low | Low to Moderate | Effective for garden protection, but doesn’t protect the entire yard. |
| Gravel Borders | Moderate | Low | Low | Unpleasant to dig through; best for foundations or specific beds. |
| Solid Walls | Very High | High | High | Most expensive but most effective for entire property. |
| Motion Sprinklers | Moderate | Low | Moderate | Good for deterring, but not a physical barrier. |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Barriers
- Area to Protect: Are you protecting your entire yard, a specific garden, or just the foundation of your house?
- Budget: Costs can vary significantly between different barrier types.
- Aesthetics: How will the barrier look in your landscape?
- Durability: How long do you expect the barrier to last?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the most effective way to stop armadillos digging?
A1: A combination of methods is usually most effective. A well-installed buried fence with an L-footer is a highly effective physical barrier. Supplementing this with natural repellents and reducing insect attractants in your yard creates a less inviting environment.
Q2: Can I use mothballs to deter armadillos?
A2: While some sources suggest mothballs, they are generally not recommended. Mothballs contain naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, which are toxic chemicals. They can be harmful to pets, children, and the environment, and their effectiveness against armadillos is often inconsistent. There are safer, more natural armadillo deterrents available.
Q3: How deep do I need to bury a fence to keep armadillos out?
A3: For effective armadillo proofing yard with fencing, bury the fence at least 12 to 18 inches deep. Burying it with an outward-facing L-shape at the bottom is even better, as it prevents them from digging underneath.
Q4: Are there any humane armadillo removal services?
A4: Yes, many wildlife control professionals offer humane armadillo removal services. They are experienced in trapping and relocating armadillos safely and according to local regulations. Always inquire about their methods to ensure they are humane.
Q5: How can I prevent armadillo damage to my vegetable garden?
A5: To prevent preventing armadillo damage to your garden, you can install fencing around the perimeter, burying it at least 12 inches deep. Using raised beds can also help, especially if the sides are made of sturdy material that armadillos cannot easily dig through or climb over. Removing insect pests from the soil can also reduce the attractiveness of your garden.
Q6: What are some good natural armadillo repellents?
A6: Some effective natural armadillo repellents include mixtures of cayenne pepper or chili powder with water, garlic or onion sprays, and castor oil mixed with water and soap. Used coffee grounds are also sometimes cited, though their effectiveness may be less pronounced.
Q7: Can armadillos dig through concrete or hard surfaces?
A7: Armadillos are powerful diggers, but they are unlikely to dig through solid concrete. However, they can exploit cracks or gaps in concrete foundations or pavement. Ensuring foundations are sealed and free of openings is important for preventing them from burrowing underneath.
Q8: My neighbor’s yard has armadillos, will they come to my yard?
A8: If your yard offers a more favorable environment (abundant food, easy access, suitable shelter), armadillos will likely move into your yard. Implementing armadillo control methods proactively, even if your immediate neighbor doesn’t have issues, can prevent them from establishing a presence.
By understanding armadillo behavior and employing a combination of deterrents, barriers, and good yard maintenance, you can effectively manage armadillo activity and keep your yard safe and enjoyable. Remember to prioritize humane and safe practices for both yourself and the wildlife.