How to Get Rid of an Armadillo: A Comprehensive Guide

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Ever woken up to find your perfectly manicured lawn looking like a miniature excavation site? You’re not alone. Armadillos, those quirky armored mammals, are notorious for their digging habits, and they can quickly turn a pristine yard into a patchy, hole-ridden mess. While they might seem harmless, their relentless search for insects can wreak havoc on gardens, landscaping, and even the foundations of your home. The good news is, there are humane and effective ways to deter these persistent critters and reclaim your property.

Dealing with an armadillo infestation is more than just an aesthetic issue. Their digging can damage underground utilities, create tripping hazards, and even attract other unwanted pests. Knowing how to safely and effectively manage armadillos is crucial for protecting your property, preventing further damage, and maintaining the health and safety of your outdoor spaces. So, how do you get these armored excavators to relocate without causing them harm or resorting to drastic measures?

What are the most common questions about armadillo removal?

What are the most effective ways to humanely trap an armadillo?

The most effective way to humanely trap an armadillo is by using a live trap, ideally one that is about 9x11x30 inches in size. Place the trap near an area where you’ve observed the armadillo digging or entering/exiting a burrow. Guiding the armadillo toward the trap using fencing or natural barriers significantly increases your chances of success, as armadillos tend to follow linear paths. Avoid using bait initially; armadillos are not easily lured by food. Instead, rely on their natural foraging habits and direct them into the trap.

Armadillos are persistent diggers and primarily hunt for insects and grubs underground. Therefore, baiting a trap is often ineffective. Their poor eyesight also means they rely heavily on their sense of smell and their habit of following existing trails or barriers. To capitalize on this, position the live trap along a wall, fence, or the side of your house, essentially creating a funnel that leads them inside. You can further enhance this by creating a temporary “fence” using boards or chicken wire extending outwards from the trap opening. Ensure the trap is stable and on level ground to avoid startling the armadillo. Once you’ve captured the armadillo, it’s crucial to relocate it to a suitable environment at least 5-10 miles away from your property. This location should offer ample natural food sources (insects, grubs) and suitable burrowing opportunities. Before relocation, check local and state regulations regarding the trapping and relocation of wildlife, as permits may be required in some areas. Wear thick gloves when handling the trap to avoid any potential scratches or bites, although armadillos are generally not aggressive. Releasing the armadillo during daylight hours will give it time to find a safe burrow before nightfall, when it is most active.

How can I prevent armadillos from digging up my yard?

Preventing armadillos from digging in your yard involves a multi-pronged approach focusing on removing attractants, creating physical barriers, and using repellents. Combining these strategies provides the best chance of success in deterring these persistent creatures.

One of the first steps is to eliminate what’s drawing armadillos to your property. Armadillos primarily dig for insects and grubs. Reducing or eliminating these food sources can make your yard less appealing. Consider using less fertilizer and watering less frequently to discourage insect populations. If you have a persistent grub problem, nematodes can be used as a biological control agent to reduce their numbers without harming your lawn. Also, clear away brush piles, fallen fruit, and other debris where armadillos might seek shelter.

Creating physical barriers can also be very effective. A fence, even a low one (18-24 inches), buried a few inches deep, can deter armadillos. Make sure the fence is sturdy, as armadillos are strong diggers. Chicken wire or hardware cloth can be used to create the barrier. Another approach is to apply repellents. Various commercial armadillo repellents are available, often containing castor oil as the active ingredient. These need to be reapplied regularly, especially after rain. Alternatively, you can try homemade repellents, such as cayenne pepper mixed with water, sprayed in areas where armadillos are digging. Be mindful of pets and children when using repellents.

Yes, legal restrictions on removing or relocating armadillos vary significantly by state and sometimes even by local municipality. It’s crucial to check with your state’s wildlife agency or local animal control before taking any action, as regulations can cover everything from trapping methods to whether relocation is permitted at all.

Many states classify armadillos as non-game animals, which generally means they are not protected but also not entirely unregulated. Some states may require permits for trapping or handling nuisance wildlife, including armadillos. Relocating armadillos is often discouraged or outright prohibited because it can spread diseases to new areas, disrupt existing ecosystems, and lead to the animal’s death if it cannot adapt to a new environment. Furthermore, moving an animal off your property may simply move the problem to someone else’s property. In some areas, it might be legal to lethally remove armadillos if they are causing significant damage and other methods have failed. However, ethical considerations and humane dispatch methods are typically emphasized. Always prioritize preventative measures like fencing and habitat modification to discourage armadillos from entering your property in the first place. Consulting with a professional wildlife removal service is often the safest and most effective way to handle armadillo problems while remaining compliant with all applicable laws.

What are the signs of armadillo damage in my garden?

The most common signs of armadillo damage in a garden are shallow holes, typically 3-5 inches wide and a few inches deep, that they dig while foraging for insects and grubs. You might also notice disturbed plant roots, uprooted seedlings, or damaged lawns, as armadillos relentlessly search for food beneath the surface.

Armadillos are nocturnal creatures, so you’re less likely to see them in action. Instead, you’ll find evidence of their presence the next morning. Their digging isn’t usually extensive enough to cause major structural damage, but it can quickly turn a well-manicured garden or lawn into an unsightly mess. They are particularly fond of areas with loose soil, mulch, or leaf litter, as these areas tend to harbor insects. Besides digging, look for signs of their burrows. While they may utilize existing holes or dens, armadillos also create their own. These burrows are usually located near buildings, fences, or dense vegetation. If you’re unsure whether the damage is due to an armadillo or another animal, consider the shape and size of the holes and the overall pattern of disturbance. Squirrels, for example, tend to dig smaller, more scattered holes, while armadillo holes are usually more uniform and concentrated in specific areas where they are actively foraging.

How can I seal off entry points to prevent armadillos from getting under your house?

The most effective way to prevent armadillos from getting under your house is to physically block their access by installing a sturdy barrier. This typically involves using galvanized hardware cloth or wire mesh, burying it at least 12 inches deep, and extending it outward at least 12 inches horizontally to deter digging. Ensure the mesh is securely attached to the house’s foundation or any other structure.

To effectively seal off entry points, begin by thoroughly inspecting the perimeter of your house, paying close attention to areas where the foundation meets the ground, around pipes or utility lines, and near any existing holes or depressions. Armadillos are strong diggers, so addressing even seemingly small gaps is crucial. Use heavy-duty materials like 1/4-inch or 1/2-inch galvanized hardware cloth, which is durable and resistant to rust. When burying the wire mesh, creating an “L” shape by bending the bottom portion outward will significantly hinder the armadillo’s ability to dig underneath it. Beyond just the mesh barrier, consider reinforcing vulnerable areas with concrete or rocks, especially if you’ve had persistent issues in the past. Also, maintain a clear area around your foundation by removing vegetation and debris, as these can provide cover and encourage armadillos to approach your house. Regular inspections and prompt repairs of any breaches in your defenses are essential to maintaining a long-term, armadillo-free zone under your home.

Well, there you have it! Hopefully, these tips have given you a good starting point to humanely evict your armadillo guest. Remember to be patient and persistent, and soon you’ll have your yard back. Thanks for reading, and come on back anytime you need a little critter-control advice!