Armadillo Garden Damage: Deterrence and Trapping

Armadillos root in lawns and gardens for insects, grubs, and worms. They can uproot plants and create unsightly holes.

Deterrence

• Remove food: Reduce grub populations with milky spore or beneficial nematodes (long-term).
• Fence: 2-ft tall hardware cloth, buried 12", bent outward at bottom.
• Motion sprinkler: May startle them initially.

Warning on Coyote Urine

Using predator urine can attract actual coyotes, putting pets at risk.

Trapping

Live-catch cage traps (10x12x32 inches) baited with overripe fruit or earthworms, placed along travel routes or at burrow entrances. Check state laws—relocation often prohibited; euthanasia may be required. Armadillos are non-native in many states and not protected.

The author promotes a commercial deterrent (Walnut Creek Enterprises).