Armadillos are fascinating critters (even cute?), but they can cause trouble if they decide to make your lawn their new home.
These small mammals are known for digging wide burrows, which can lead to damage on your property.
If you’ve found an armadillo burrow in your yard, you’re likely looking for the best way to catch and remove the animal.
Here’s a quick guide that provides practical tips for catching armadillos and keeping them away from your property.
Understanding Armadillo Behavior
Before attempting to catch an armadillo, it’s essential to understand its behavior…
Armadillos are nocturnal creatures that dig into the ground in search of food, mainly earthworms and insects.
Their burrows can be quite deep, and once they get comfortable in an area, they may stay unless removed.
Tools You’ll Need for Catching an Armadillo
Catching armadillos requires some specific tools. A cage trap is the most effective method. You’ll want to use a trap that’s large enough to fit the animal, with a spring-loaded door to ensure it can’t escape once inside.
Here’s a list of items you’ll need:
- Cage traps: These can be found at most hardware stores or ordered online.
- Bait: Earthworms, grubs, or other insects work well since they’re the armadillo’s main food source.
- Relocation tools: Once caught, you’ll need to safely relocate the animal to an area far away from your property.
Setting the Armadillo Trap
Place the cage trap near the burrow or in an area where you’ve seen the armadillo.
Set it up at night, as this is when armadillos are most active.
To increase your chances of success, place the bait deep inside the trap, ensuring the armadillo has to go all the way in to get it.
Be sure to set the trap properly so the door closes as soon as the animal triggers it.
Tips for Catching Armadillos
- Find the right spot: Armadillos often dig along the side of buildings or near shrubbery. Place the trap in these high-activity areas for the best results.
- Make use of natural barriers: Direct the armadillo towards the trap by using barriers, like pieces of wood, to form a funnel. This will guide the armadillo to the door of the trap.
- Check the traps frequently: Armadillos are wild animals and should be relocated as soon as possible to minimize stress. Once you’ve caught the armadillo, remove the trap from the area and relocate it away from populated spaces.
Relocating the Armadillo
Once you’ve successfully caught the armadillo, you’ll need to relocate it.
Armadillos should be released in a wildlife-friendly area far away from residential properties to avoid it coming back.
Before releasing, make sure the location is suitable for the animal to find food and shelter.
When to Call in Wildlife Control Services
If you’ve tried everything but still can’t catch the armadillo, you may want to contact professional wildlife control services.
Wildlife experts have experience and tools that can help remove the armadillo safely. They can also offer advice on how to prevent future armadillo problems.
Preventing Armadillos From Coming Back
After catching and relocating the armadillo, you’ll want to take steps to prevent more from coming.
One way to do this is by filling in the burrows and repairing any damage.
Adding barriers around the property and sealing off potential burrow sites can help keep armadillos away. If you see fresh digging, take action quickly to avoid having another armadillo settle down.
Final Thoughts On Catching An Armadillo
Catching an armadillo can be a challenge, but with the right tools and techniques, it’s possible to safely remove the animal from your property.
Make sure to check your traps regularly, use the right bait, and follow all guidelines to ensure the humane treatment of the animal.
If people are struggling to remove armadillos, professional wildlife control services are always an option.
For more detailed guidance, you can refer to a wildlife expert’s page on armadillo removal. With patience and persistence, you’ll have your yard armadillo-free in no time.