Identifying and Stopping Nocturnal Garden Raiders

A gardener described seeds and vegetables being eaten at night, with wire mesh being chewed through. Suspects included raccoons, opossums, and squirrels. Blood meal failed as a deterrent.

Why Blood Meal Backfired

As the original answer noted, blood meal is a predator attractant, not a repellent for omnivores. Its high nitrogen content and animal origin draw:

• Raccoons, opossums, skunks
• Coyotes, foxes
• Domestic dogs and cats

Identifying the Culprit by Damage Signs

Effective Exclusion Strategies

For Raised Beds

• Hardware cloth (1/4" or 1/2"): Line bottom and sides
• Frame-supported covers: PVC or wood frames with bird netting or row cover
• Electric fence kit: Low-voltage 2-3 strand around perimeter

For In-Ground Gardens

• Perimeter fence: 3-4' welded wire with 12" buried apron
• Electric fence: Most cost-effective for larger areas
• Raised beds with bottoms: Complete exclusion

Seed-Specific Protection

• Mint seed treatment: As original answer suggested—coat seeds with powdered mint (peppermint/spearmint)
• Indoor starting: Transplant sturdy seedlings instead of direct seeding
• Seed tapes/pellets: Less attractive to foragers

Integrated Management Plan

1. Identify species using trail camera or tracking powder (flour/cornstarch)
2. Remove attractants: Fallen fruit, pet food, compost access, water sources
3. Install physical barriers appropriate to identified species
4. Consider live trapping for persistent individuals (check regulations)
5. Habitat modification: Remove brush piles, seal under-deck access

Professional Resources

The original answer referenced two valuable resources:

• About.com seed predation guide
• Walnut Creek Enterprises deterrents
• ICWDM for species-specific control guides

Key insight: the chewed wire mesh strongly suggests rats or squirrels. Raccoons typically tear or roll mesh rather than gnaw precise holes. A trail camera ($30-50) will definitively identify your visitor within 2-3 nights.