Quick Answer
Armadillos occasionally dig up gardens or lawns in pursuit of insects, grubs, and roots, which are their primary food sources. Typically, they cause damage in late spring and early summer when insect populations are at their peak. The extent of damage often depends on armadillo activity levels and the presence of water.
Armadillo Behavior and Habitat
Armadillos are primarily nocturnal, solitary animals that thrive in warm, humid climates with plenty of food and water. In Texas, they often inhabit areas with loose soil, such as construction sites, golf courses, or residential lawns. To prevent armadillo damage, homeowners can take steps to discourage them from inhabiting their property. Armadillos are attracted to areas with high insect activity, so maintaining a clean and dry lawn can help deter them.
Identifying Armadillo Damage
Armadillo damage often appears as small holes or trenches in lawns, typically 6-8 inches deep and 4-6 inches wide. The holes may be scattered or concentrated in a particular area, depending on the armadillo’s foraging patterns. If you suspect armadillo damage, inspect the area for signs of digging or digging marks. Armadillos may also create small mounds of soil near their digging sites.
Preventing Armadillo Damage
To prevent armadillo damage, homeowners can take several steps: installing armadillo-proof fencing (at least 3 feet high and extending 12 inches below ground level), using repellents or deterrents (such as castor oil or hot pepper spray), and sealing holes and burrows. Additionally, maintaining a clean and dry lawn, removing food sources (such as pet food or compost), and using insecticides can help discourage armadillos from inhabiting the area.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.