Armadillos are unique creatures known for their hard shells and excellent digging skills. While they play a role in controlling insect populations, they can become a nuisance when they dig up yards and gardens. If you’ve noticed holes in your lawn or damage to your plants, armadillos might be the cause.

These nocturnal animals are common in the southern United States, particularly in Texas and Florida, but they have been expanding their range over the years. The good news is that armadillos are not aggressive, and there are several ways to keep them away from your property without harming them.

In this guide, we’ll explore effective methods to deter armadillos and protect your yard from their digging habits.

Helpful for you: Armadillos Removal Services

How to Keep Armadillos Out of Your Property

1. Install a Proper Fence

One of the best ways to keep armadillos out of your yard is to build a fence. However, since they are strong diggers, your fence needs to be designed carefully.

• The fence should be at least 2 feet high to prevent them from climbing over.
• It should be buried at least 1 foot underground to stop them from digging underneath.
• Use fine mesh wire or a solid material without large gaps.

If you already have a fence, check for holes or spaces where armadillos might squeeze through. Sealing these gaps can help prevent them from entering.

2. Use Strong Scents to Deter Them

Armadillos have an excellent sense of smell, and certain odors can keep them away. They dislike strong, pungent scents such as:

• Vinegar
• Ammonia
• Pine-based cleaners
• Garlic or cayenne pepper sprays

You can soak rags in vinegar or ammonia and place them around your yard or near armadillo burrows. Be sure to refresh these scents regularly, especially after rain.

3. Remove Their Food Sources

Armadillos primarily feed on insects, grubs, and worms. If your yard has a lot of these, it will naturally attract armadillos. To make your yard less appealing:

• Apply insect repellents or natural nematodes to reduce the number of grubs.
• Keep your lawn well-maintained and avoid overwatering, which can attract insects.
• Use organic pest control solutions to eliminate food sources without harming beneficial wildlife.

4. Clear Out Shelter and Hiding Spots

Armadillos prefer areas with dense vegetation, woodpiles, and debris where they can hide. Keeping your yard clean and well-maintained will discourage them from staying.

• Trim overgrown bushes and grass.
• Remove logs, piles of wood, and debris.
• Fill in any abandoned burrows to prevent them from reusing them.

5. Set Up Motion-Activated Lights or Sprinklers

Since armadillos are nocturnal, they prefer dark and quiet environments. Motion-activated lights or sprinklers can startle them and make your yard less inviting.

• Bright lights can make them feel exposed.
• Motion-activated sprinklers will spray water when they detect movement, scaring them away.

This method is humane and works well for deterring other wildlife, too.

6. Use Humane Trapping Methods

If an armadillo is causing significant damage and other methods are not working, trapping may be necessary. Here’s how to do it safely:

• Use a sturdy cage trap (at least 12”x10”x30”).
• Place it along fences or walls where armadillos naturally travel.
• Check local laws before trapping, as relocation rules may vary by state.

Since trapping can be tricky, it’s often best to call a professional wildlife control service to handle the process properly.

Also Read: Should you use an expert to remove Armadillos from your home?

How Wildout Can Help You?

If armadillos keep returning to your yard despite your efforts, professional wildlife control services can help. In Central Florida, Wildout Animal and Pest Control specializes in humane removal and prevention. They can:

• Safely trap and remove armadillos from your property.
• Repair damage caused by digging or burrowing.
• Set up long-term solutions to keep armadillos from returning.

If you need expert help, contact Wildout Animal and Pest Control for professional wildlife removal services.

Conclusion

Armadillos can be fascinating creatures, but they can also be destructive if they decide to burrow in your yard. The best way to keep them out is through proper fencing, strong scents, removing food sources, and clearing hiding spots. If these methods don’t work, humane trapping or professional pest control services may be necessary.

By taking the right precautions, you can protect your property from unwanted armadillo visitors while keeping your garden safe and healthy.

FAQs

How do I know if an armadillo is in my yard?

Look for small holes (about 3-5 inches wide) in your lawn or garden, uprooted plants, and burrows near trees or buildings.

Do armadillos bite or attack humans?

No, armadillos are not aggressive. They are shy creatures that prefer to avoid human contact.

What time of day are armadillos most active?

Armadillos are nocturnal, so they are most active at night, usually between dusk and dawn.

Can armadillos carry diseases?

Yes, armadillos are known to carry leprosy in rare cases. However, the risk of transmission to humans is extremely low.

What is the best way to remove armadillos from my yard?

The most effective methods include fencing, using strong scents, removing food sources, and trapping if necessary.

Is it legal to trap and relocate armadillos?

Laws vary by state, so it’s best to check with local wildlife agencies before attempting to trap and relocate an armadillo.