How to Get Rid of Armadillos

Armadillos are mammals with a unique bony shell. They are nocturnal animals with a flair for digging and their sharp claws help them with this task. They dig soil for two purposes - for making dens and searching for food (mainly insects and small invertebrates). This can be a nuisance to human beings, as the armadillos destroy their lawns, vegetable gardens and in some cases even foundations of buildings, while digging. Hence, it is very important to keep them away from your house.

Even though, there are about twenty species of armadillos found across the globe, only one specimen exists in the United States - the nine-banded armadillo. These armadillos can dig to the depth of fifteen inches and their burrows are usually seven to ten inches wide. Such burrows, if made underneath a house, can result in cracks in the walls or can damage the foundation itself. These holes can attract other animals too.

The following methods can be used to get rid of these animals.

• The first and foremost method is preventing these animals from entering your premises. This can be achieved by building a fence around your land. Metal chain-link fences are good, but make sure that it is buried into the ground by at least 18 inches. This is to prevent the armadillos from digging it out. The top portion of the fence should stick out at a 45 degree angle or use razor wire to cover that portion. This will prevent them from climbing over the fence.
• The next method is to use deterrents. These animals hate the smell of ammonia, mothballs, or even urine of their predators. Regular use of these substances in your premises can ward off armadillos. Nowadays, some commercial preparations are also available for this purpose.
• You can also trap the animal and relocate it later. A variety of traps are available for this purpose, but make sure that it is legal to trap an armadillo in your region. You can place the trap near the opening of its burrow or near its daily route. For effective trapping, use more than one trap and keep it in different locations. Once trapped, take the animal to some remote place, preferably near some water source and leave it there.
• Some people catch these animals by hand, instead of using a trap. This method is very dangerous, as the animal possesses sharp claws, which can be used for retaliation. But If you still want to try this method, catch them by their tail and hold it away from you. You can also use a fishing net for this purpose.
• Finally, there are professionals available, who can help you in getting rid of these animals. But a remuneration has to be provided for their services.

Once you get rid of armadillos, try to take precautionary measures to prevent them from entering your place. Keep your surroundings clean and free of insects, which can attract these animals. Erect a fence around your compound and use deterrents. These animals are carriers of leprosy. Even though, the disease is not contagious and very rarely spreads from armadillos to human beings, it is always safe to keep these animals away.