How to Get Rid of Armadillos (Guide)

Armadillos can wreak havoc on your lawn and garden with their burrowing habits. If you’re tired of dealing with these pesky creatures and want to regain control of your property, you’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to effectively get rid of armadillos and protect your outdoor space.

Key Takeaways:

• Armadillos are burrowing creatures that can cause significant damage to lawns and gardens.
• By removing attractants and food sources, such as fallen fruit and dense shrubbery, you can discourage armadillos from entering your yard.
• Installing physical barriers, like metal fencing and in-ground fences, can effectively prevent armadillos from accessing your property.
• Natural repellents, such as cayenne pepper and garlic, can be used to deter armadillos due to their strong smell.
• Electronic deterrents, like motion-activated sprinklers and motion-sensing lights, can startle armadillos and discourage them from entering your yard.

Now, let’s dive into the details on how to get rid of armadillos and reclaim your outdoor space from these persistent pests.

Understanding Armadillos and Their Behavior

In order to effectively tackle an armadillo problem, it’s important to have a good understanding of these unique mammals and their behavior. Armadillos are easily recognizable by their hard shell and have a preference for warm habitats. They are primarily insectivores, feeding on bugs, grubs, and worms. This can result in divots in dirt or grass as they search for their preferred food sources.

Armadillos are known for their burrowing habits, creating extensive underground tunnels for shelter and foraging. These burrows can cause damage to lawns and gardens, as well as pose a tripping hazard. Identifying armadillos can be done through their physical characteristics, such as their armor-like shell, long snout, and sharp claws.

Armadillo Characteristics:

• Hard shell for protection
• Long snout for digging
• Sharp claws for excavating burrows

Armadillo Habits:

• Nocturnal animals, primarily active at night
• Prefer warm climates and habitats
• Feed on bugs, grubs, and worms
• Create extensive burrows for shelter and foraging

By understanding armadillo behavior and characteristics, you can better tailor your approach to get rid of them effectively. The next sections will provide detailed methods and strategies to address the armadillo problem, including removing attractants, installing physical barriers, using natural repellents, employing electronic deterrents, and live trapping and removal.

Table: Armadillo Identification

Removing Attractants and Food Sources

One of the key steps in effectively deterring armadillos from entering your yard is to remove the attractants and food sources that may be drawing them in. Armadillos are primarily attracted to areas with abundant food, so by eliminating these sources, you can make your yard less appealing to these burrowing creatures.

Here are some practical tips to help you remove armadillo attractants:

1. Clear fallen fruit: Armadillos are known to feed on fallen fruit, so make sure to regularly clean up any fallen fruits from trees or plants in your yard. This reduces the availability of food for armadillos and makes your yard less enticing.
2. Trim dense shrubbery: Armadillos often use dense shrubbery as cover, so trimming and pruning shrubs and bushes can discourage them from entering your yard. By reducing their hiding spots, you create a less appealing environment for armadillos.
3. Remove brush piles: Armadillos may also seek shelter in brush piles, so clearing away any brush or debris piles in your yard can help deter them. Ensure that your yard is clean and free of potential hiding spots for armadillos.

By implementing these steps, you can significantly reduce the attractants and food sources that may be luring armadillos to your yard. It’s important to create an inhospitable environment for these creatures, making them less likely to stay or return.

Deterrents to Keep Armadillos Away

In addition to removing attractants, it’s also beneficial to use deterrents that discourage armadillos from entering your yard in the first place. These deterrents create a barrier that armadillos find unappealing or intimidating.

Here are some effective deterrents to consider:

• Strong scents: Armadillos have a keen sense of smell, so using strong scents can help deter them. Garlic, castor oil, or ammonia-soaked rags strategically placed near entry points or areas frequented by armadillos can discourage their presence.
• Noise and vibrations: Armadillos are sensitive to noise and vibrations. You can use motion-activated devices, like ultrasonic repellents, to emit high-frequency sounds or install vibrating stakes in the ground near burrow entrances to deter armadillos.
• Fencing: Installing a sturdy fence that extends below the ground can prevent armadillos from burrowing their way into your yard. Ensure that the fence is at least 2 feet deep and angled outward to make it difficult for armadillos to dig their way underneath.

Using these deterrents, in combination with removing attractants, can help create an environment that armadillos find uninviting, reducing the likelihood of their presence on your property.

Installing Physical Barriers

When it comes to deterring armadillos from entering your yard, installing physical barriers can be an effective solution. By creating obstacles that prevent armadillos from accessing your property, you can protect your lawn and gardens from their destructive behavior.

Armadillo Fencing

One of the most common physical barriers used to keep armadillos out is armadillo fencing. This type of fencing is typically made from durable materials like metal or strong wire mesh. The fence should be buried at least 12 to 18 inches deep to prevent armadillos from burrowing underneath it. Additionally, it’s recommended to extend the fence above ground by at least 3 feet to discourage armadillos from trying to climb over it.

In-Ground Fencing

In-ground fencing is another effective method for preventing armadillos from entering your yard. This type of barrier involves installing a wire mesh fence that extends horizontally underground. The underground portion of the fence should be angled away from your yard, creating an outward slope. This design makes it difficult for armadillos to dig or burrow under, effectively keeping them out.

Armadillo Deterrents

In addition to physical barriers, there are various armadillo deterrents that can help protect your property. One common deterrent is the use of sharp objects or materials around the perimeter of your yard. Armadillos have sensitive noses and feet, so they are less likely to cross an area that is covered in prickly plants, thorny branches, or gravel.

It’s important to note that while physical barriers and deterrents can be effective, they may not guarantee complete armadillo exclusion. Armadillos are persistent creatures and may find alternative ways to enter your yard. Therefore, it is recommended to use a combination of methods and regularly inspect and maintain your barriers to ensure their effectiveness in keeping armadillos at bay.

Natural Armadillo Repellents

When dealing with armadillos invading your yard, natural repellents can be an effective and environmentally friendly solution. These repellents work by creating an inhospitable environment for armadillos, deterring them from entering your property. Two common natural armadillo deterrents are cayenne pepper and garlic.

Cayenne Pepper: Armadillos have a keen sense of smell, and the strong odor of cayenne pepper can be highly unpleasant to them. To use cayenne pepper as a repellent, mix it with water and spray the solution around the perimeter of your yard, focusing on areas where armadillos are frequently seen or where they may be accessing your property. Reapply the solution after rain or heavy watering to maintain its effectiveness.

Garlic: Similar to cayenne pepper, armadillos dislike the smell of garlic. Crush several cloves of garlic and place them in a spray bottle filled with water. Allow the mixture to steep for a few hours, then spray it around your yard, paying close attention to potential entry points for armadillos. Remember to reapply the solution periodically to ensure continued effectiveness.

Table: Comparison of Cayenne Pepper and Garlic as Armadillo Repellents

It’s important to note that natural armadillo repellents may require time and consistent application to achieve the desired results. Additionally, while these repellents can be effective, they may not completely eliminate the presence of armadillos. For severe infestations or persistent problems, it is advisable to consult with professionals who can provide specialized guidance and assistance.

By utilizing natural repellents such as cayenne pepper and garlic, you can create a physical and olfactory barrier that discourages armadillos from entering your yard. Remember to be persistent in your application and consider combining these repellents with other methods outlined in this guide for comprehensive armadillo control.

Electronic Deterrents

When it comes to keeping armadillos away from your yard, electronic deterrents can be an effective solution. These devices utilize motion-activated technology to startle and scare off armadillos, preventing them from causing further damage. Two popular types of electronic deterrents are motion-activated sprinklers and motion-sensing lights.

Motion-Activated Sprinklers

Motion-activated sprinklers are a great way to deter armadillos from entering your yard. These devices work by detecting motion and then spraying a burst of water, startling the armadillos and causing them to retreat. The sudden blast of water acts as a deterrent, training armadillos to stay away from your property. You can easily set up motion-activated sprinklers in your yard, strategically placing them in areas where armadillos are likely to enter.

Motion-Sensing Lights

Another effective electronic deterrent is motion-sensing lights. These lights are equipped with sensors that detect movement and automatically turn on when armadillos approach. The sudden burst of light can startle armadillos and make them feel unsafe, encouraging them to leave your yard. Motion-sensing lights can be installed around the perimeter of your property, creating a well-lit environment that armadillos will want to avoid.

Using electronic deterrents in combination with other methods, such as removing food sources and installing physical barriers, can greatly increase your chances of successfully repelling armadillos. Remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when setting up and using these devices to ensure maximum effectiveness. By incorporating motion-activated sprinklers and motion-sensing lights into your armadillo control plan, you can create an environment that armadillos will find unwelcoming, ultimately protecting your yard from their destructive habits.

Live Trapping and Removal

When other methods fail to deter armadillos from your property, live trapping can be an effective solution for their removal. By using specially designed armadillo traps, you can safely capture these creatures and relocate them to a more suitable habitat. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to set up and bait armadillo traps:

Step 1: Choose the Right Trap

There are various types of armadillo traps available, such as cage traps or one-door traps. Select a trap that is large enough to accommodate armadillos and has a sturdy construction to prevent their escape. Ensure that the trap is humane and designed to minimize harm to the trapped animal.

Step 2: Set the Trap

Place the trap in areas where armadillos are known to frequent, such as near their burrows or the damaged sections of your yard. Make sure to position the trap securely on a flat surface, ensuring stability and preventing the armadillo from tipping it over. Ensure the trap is in a location that is easily accessible for both the armadillo and yourself.

Step 3: Bait the Trap

Armadillos are attracted to a variety of food, including worms, grubs, and insects. Use these as bait to entice the armadillo into the trap. Place the bait inside the trap, near the trigger or at the back, to ensure that the armadillo fully enters the trap before triggering its release mechanism.

It is important to note that some states or local regulations may require a permit or professional assistance for trapping and relocating armadillos. Before proceeding with live trapping, research and comply with the guidelines set by your local wildlife authorities to ensure a legal and humane removal process.

By following the steps outlined above and considering the advantages and disadvantages of live trapping, you can effectively remove armadillos from your property in a humane and responsible manner.

Seeking Professional Assistance

If your attempts to control armadillos on your own have been unsuccessful or if the problem persists, it’s time to consider seeking professional assistance. Pest control services and local wildlife removal experts have the knowledge, experience, and resources to tackle armadillo infestations effectively.

Professional armadillo control offers several benefits. Firstly, experts in the field can conduct a thorough assessment of your property to determine the extent of the infestation and develop a customized plan. They have access to professional-grade tools and techniques that may not be readily available to the average homeowner. This ensures a more targeted and efficient approach to armadillo removal.

Additionally, pest control services and wildlife removal experts understand the local laws and regulations associated with handling and relocating armadillos. They will adhere to ethical practices and guidelines, ensuring the safe and humane removal of these creatures from your property. By working with professionals, you can have peace of mind knowing that the armadillos are being handled in a responsible and legal manner.

When selecting a professional service, it’s essential to choose a reputable company with a track record of success in dealing with armadillo control. Consider reading online reviews, seeking recommendations from neighbors or friends, and asking about the expertise and training of the technicians. By making an informed decision and enlisting the help of professionals, you can effectively resolve your armadillo problem once and for all.

Conclusion

In conclusion, effectively controlling armadillos and removing them from your yard requires a combination of strategies and persistence. By following the step-by-step methods outlined in this guide, you can regain control of your property and prevent further damage caused by armadillos.

It is important to remember that understanding armadillos’ behavior and removing their food sources are essential steps in deterring them from entering your yard. By eliminating attractants such as fallen fruit and dense shrubbery, you can create an environment that is inhospitable to armadillos.

Installing physical barriers, using natural repellents, and employing electronic deterrents are also effective methods to keep armadillos at bay. However, if your DIY efforts prove unsuccessful or the armadillo problem persists, it is advisable to seek professional assistance from pest control services or wildlife removal experts.

In summary, by combining these methods and seeking professional help when needed, you can successfully control and remove armadillos from your property. Remember to stay persistent and implement the strategies outlined in this guide to achieve long-term armadillo control and protect your yard.