Armadillo Sightings Are On The Rise

Armadillo sightings are growing by the day. Not only are outside temperatures becoming more favorable for these critters, but their population has been steadily increasing. Armadillos have only reached Tennessee in the last three decades or so, but since then, they’ve been rapidly spreading across the state from west to east. More and more frequently, this raises questions about armadillo removal and proper armadillo trapper techniques. Let’s look at why you don’t want armadillos near your home and the best ways to get rid of them.

Why Is Armadillo Removal Necessary?

Armadillos are a unique and seemingly harmless looking animal. Since they have poor eyesight, they often favor night time for foraging and other movements. Because of their preference for nocturnal behavior, the damage they create is often overlooked. They’re typically able to go unnoticed, but the damage they leave behind is evidence enough.

These animals exist off of an insect heavy diet. Coupled with their burrowing tendencies, this makes for a series of holes that can be several inches deep. Armadillos are notorious for uprooting shrubs and gardens in search of a midnight snack. They can do a surprising amount of damage in just a single night, leaving your lawn riddled with holes or your garden uprooted.

Although these creatures will not attempt to get inside of your home, they are known for burrowing along the walls of foundation, beside driveways, and next to sidewalks. They might be harmless at first; however, leaving these burrows unattended for long periods of time can lead to structural issues.

A single armadillo can cause quite a bit of damage on its own. Unfortunately, since they mate in the summer, there are only a few months left until we begin to see offspring. This makes it crucial to start tackling your armadillo problem sooner rather than later. It’s a lot easier to remove a single armadillo than it is an entire family. Not to mention the damages that several armadillos can cause together.

Beyond their destructive tendencies, armadillos are the only mammal (other than humans) known to carry leprosy. While they aren’t a naturally aggressive species, the disease is spread through contact with their saliva, and it’s better not to have any risk for contracting the disease. Although they do have the ability to carry leprosy, not all armadillos do. It’s still recommended that any scratches or bites be seen and treated immediately by a trained medical professional.

Identifying Armadillos on Your Property

Before you actually begin to take armadillo removal measures against armadillos, you’ll need to make sure that you’re actually dealing with one. Look around your yard for the tell-tale signs of an armadillo. It can be tricky at times– there are several animals that burrow and cause holes within your yard. Common signs of armadillos include:

• Uprooted plants
• Damaged piping
• Damaged wires
• Cracks in your sidewalk
• Cracks in your driveway

Several shallow holes throughout your lawn (about 3-5 inches wide and 1-3 inches deep)

Burrows around the perimeter of your home (most commonly around shrubs, rock piles, stumps, and brush)

Note: if you see any mounds next to the holes, you’re most likely dealing with woodchucks, gophers, or moles. Contact Complete Animal Removal to complete an official walkthrough to determine the exact pest you’re dealing with.

Armadillo Removal Traps

Armadillo trappers are the best way to get rid of any current visitors and make sure they don’t come back. You’ll have to put one of the most effective armadillo baits into the trap:

• Pond worms
• Wigglers
• Crickets
• Red worms

You can find most of these either online or at a local pet store. Keep in mind, armadillos have poor eyesight. You’ll need to place armadillo trappers near areas that they’re likely to walk near (such as burrows and brush). They’ll be able to smell the bait and will walk into the trap to investigate. Cages should be at least 10 by 10 by 32 inches, open at both ends, and have “wings.” Be sure to consult all wildlife laws in your area prior to attempted removal.

Deterrent Sprays for Armadillos

Another easy way to try to deter armadillos from your yard is through using a repellent. Repellent sprays may be purchased online or at supply stores. It’s recommended to use a spray that is castor-oil based.

Castor oil is an all-natural spray that will soak into the ground. It works by penetrating the ground, spoiling underground food sources (such as insects and grubs), and omitting a strong, deterring odor. This strong smell is unpleasant for armadillos and will coax them to relocate their burrows elsewhere.

Even still, you run the risk of the armadillo relocating onto your property, so the deterrent sprays are not guaranteed to work if they are the only measure you take for armadillo removal.

Get Rid of Your Armadillo Problem Today

Armadillos can cause serious damage over time, and it’s better to act now than wait and pay the price (literally). Our team of trained animal removal experts know exactly what goes into armadillo removal. Contact us today to set up a walkthrough and get your pest problem resolved sooner rather than later!