How to Repel an Armadillo

Instructions

• 1

  Determine if an armadillo is the pest that is destroying the lawn. Look for holes in the grass that are 1 to 3 inches deep and 3 to 5 inches wide. Examine any mulch beds for evidence of rooting. Check the ground next to the house for burrow holes, which are approximately 7 to 8 inches wide and up to 25 feet long.

• 2

  Cut off the food supply. Buy insecticide to kill the grubs and other insects in the lawn. Read all labels and follow the directions on the insecticide. If the armadillo cannot eat or provide food for its young, it will have to move on to a place that has a plentiful food supply.

• 3

  Spread repellents around the entire lawn or on the spots where the armadillo is doing the most damage. Armadillos have a strong sense of smell, so things that smell bad may make them leave. Suggestions include cayenne pepper, garlic, ammonia powder and mothballs. Plant garlic plants along the property boundaries to prevent them from entering the lawn.

• 4

  Consider installing a fence. There are types of effective fences, including chicken wire, chain link, electric, wooden and aluminum. To discourage the armadillo from burrowing under the fence, the fence should be buried at least 12 inches under the ground. If you have a homeowners' association, consult their guidelines when determining which type of fence you will install.

• 5

  Traps can be purchased or built. Place bait, such as fruit or worms in the trap. Place the worms inside pantyhose or other thin material to keep them from escaping. Stake boards around the burrow at an angle so the armadillo will have nowhere to go other than the trap. When the armadillo is caught in the trap, follow the laws in your area indicating what you should do with it.

• 6

  Hire a professional. The cost of using a professional service to remove armadillos varies, but some people may find this to be the best option.