Are you tired of finding your garden plants uprooted and your lawn riddled with holes? Chances are, an armadillo is the culprit. These nocturnal creatures, while fascinating, can cause significant damage to property as they tirelessly dig for grubs and insects. Understanding how to safely and effectively trap an armadillo is crucial for protecting your yard and preventing further destruction without harming the animal. A humane trapping approach allows you to relocate the armadillo to a more suitable environment, resolving the problem for both you and the critter.
Armadillos are persistent diggers, and ignoring their presence can lead to extensive damage. They can undermine foundations, tear up sprinkler systems, and even create tripping hazards. Beyond the structural and aesthetic damage, their digging can also attract other unwanted pests seeking shelter in the armadillo’s burrows. Taking proactive steps to manage these creatures is essential for maintaining a healthy and safe outdoor space for your family and pets.
What are the best practices for armadillo trapping, and how can I ensure a humane and successful outcome?
What’s the best bait for an armadillo trap?
The best bait for an armadillo trap isn’t actually bait in the traditional sense. Armadillos primarily forage for insects and grubs underground, making them less responsive to above-ground food lures. Therefore, the most effective “bait” is creating an inviting pathway to the trap by guiding them along their natural travel routes, using fencing or natural barriers to funnel them toward the opening.
While armadillos aren’t easily tempted by conventional bait, you can strategically use attractants to subtly encourage them toward the trap. Overripe fruit, such as bananas or apples, can sometimes pique their interest, especially if placed near the entrance. Additionally, a small amount of mealworms or grubs, buried shallowly near the trap’s entry, might further entice them to investigate the area. The key is to mimic their natural foraging environment. Ultimately, the location of the trap is more critical than the bait itself. Identify active armadillo burrows or areas where they frequently dig. Place the trap directly in their path, ideally along a fence line or building foundation that naturally guides their movement. Reinforcing the sides of the trap opening with small logs or rocks can help direct the armadillo inside, further enhancing your chances of success.
Where is the most effective place to set an armadillo trap?
The most effective place to set an armadillo trap is directly in the armadillo’s established travel path, ideally near its burrow entrance or along a well-worn route it uses for foraging. These routes are often identifiable by disturbed soil, shallow tunnels, or consistent digging patterns.
To maximize your trapping success, carefully scout your yard or property to identify these key areas. Look for areas where armadillos are actively digging for grubs and insects, especially near foundations, flowerbeds, or compost piles. Pay attention to areas where you consistently observe armadillo activity, such as along fences, under decks, or near wooded edges. These locations likely represent their preferred travel corridors. Once you’ve identified a promising spot, consider the trap’s placement in relation to natural obstacles. Positioning the trap near a fence line, wall, or log can help funnel the armadillo into the trap. You can also use “wings” made of boards or branches to further guide the animal towards the entrance. Camouflaging the trap with natural materials like leaves and twigs can also improve your chances, though armadillos have poor eyesight and rely more on their sense of smell. The key is to make the trap seem like a natural part of their established route.
What size trap is needed to catch an armadillo?
A trap with dimensions around 10" x 12" x 32" is generally recommended for trapping armadillos. This size provides adequate space for the animal to enter comfortably and turn around, increasing the likelihood of a successful capture while minimizing stress on the armadillo.
Choosing the right size trap is crucial for humane and effective armadillo trapping. A trap that is too small might deter the armadillo from entering, while a trap that is excessively large can be unwieldy to manage and transport. The 10" x 12" x 32" guideline is a good starting point, but it’s always advisable to consider the specific armadillo population in your area. Larger individuals might benefit from a slightly larger trap. Beyond size, the construction and trigger mechanism of the trap also matter. A sturdy, metal cage trap is preferred to prevent escape and withstand digging or scratching. The trigger should be sensitive enough to activate when the armadillo enters, but not so sensitive that it’s easily set off by wind or other environmental factors. Place the trap near the armadillo’s burrow entrance or along frequently traveled pathways for the best results. Consider using natural attractants like leaf litter or soil from their burrows to encourage entry.
How do I humanely release a trapped armadillo?
The best way to humanely release a trapped armadillo is to carefully approach the trap, keep a safe distance to avoid startling it, and slowly and calmly open the trap door, allowing the armadillo to exit on its own accord. Avoid making loud noises or sudden movements, as this can stress the animal.
Once the trap door is open, step back and observe from a distance. Armadillos are generally wary creatures, and it may take some time for it to feel comfortable enough to leave the enclosure. Be patient and avoid any attempts to force the armadillo out, as this could cause injury or undue stress. If it doesn’t leave on its own after a reasonable amount of time (e.g., an hour), consider gently tilting the trap towards the exit, or covering the back of the trap with a blanket to encourage the armadillo to move toward the light. Remember that armadillos are wild animals, and while they are not generally aggressive, they may bite or scratch if they feel threatened. Wear thick gloves and long sleeves for protection, and prioritize your safety and the armadillo’s well-being throughout the release process. Choose a release site that is near natural cover such as brush, woods, or a stream bank, to give the armadillo a better chance of survival in its new environment. Avoid releasing it near roads or areas with high human or pet traffic.
Are there any legal restrictions on trapping armadillos?
Yes, legal restrictions on trapping armadillos vary significantly by state and sometimes even by county or municipality. It’s essential to consult your local wildlife agency (usually the state’s Department of Natural Resources or Fish and Wildlife agency) for specific regulations before attempting to trap an armadillo. These regulations may cover licensing requirements, permissible trapping methods, seasons, and disposal of trapped animals.
The legality of trapping armadillos often hinges on whether the animal is causing property damage or posing a threat to agriculture. In some areas, trapping may be permitted without a permit if the armadillo is actively damaging property, while other areas may require a permit regardless. Some states might also prohibit the relocation of trapped armadillos to prevent the spread of diseases or the introduction of the animal into areas where it’s not native. Therefore, knowing the rules and adhering to them is crucial to avoid fines or other legal penalties. Furthermore, certain types of traps, such as leg-hold traps, may be heavily restricted or outright banned due to animal welfare concerns. Check for approved trap types, size limitations, and required trap checking intervals. Failing to abide by these regulations not only carries legal consequences but also raises ethical concerns related to humane animal handling. Always prioritize trapping methods that minimize stress and injury to the animal.
How deep should I bury the trap for armadillos?
You generally don’t need to bury the trap itself when trapping armadillos. The key is to guide them into the trap. Instead of burying the trap, focus on positioning it effectively near their burrow entrances or along their travel routes, and use fencing or natural barriers to funnel them towards the opening.
Armadillos are ground-dwelling mammals that root around in soil for insects and grubs, creating shallow burrows and pathways. Therefore, the focus is not on hiding the trap, but making its entrance the path of least resistance for the armadillo. Place the trap directly in line with a known burrow entrance, or along a fence line or natural barrier where the armadillo is already traveling. Winging the trap using fencing or wood can encourage the armadillo to enter, as they naturally follow barriers. Armadillos have poor eyesight, relying primarily on their sense of smell and digging instincts. Burying the trap could actually deter them, as they’d have to dig to access it, and they prefer to follow established trails. A cage trap with a level entrance sitting directly on the ground allows them to simply walk in while searching for food or following a scent. Baiting the trap with earthworms, mealworms, or fruit can also increase its effectiveness. Remember to check local regulations regarding trapping armadillos before setting up any traps.
Can I use fencing to guide an armadillo into a trap?
Yes, using fencing to guide an armadillo into a trap is a highly effective strategy. Armadillos have poor eyesight and tend to follow linear paths and existing structures, making them susceptible to being directed by barriers.
The principle behind using fencing as a guide is to exploit the armadillo’s natural behavior. Instead of relying solely on bait, which may not always be effective, fencing creates a physical barrier that an armadillo will instinctively follow. When strategically placed, this fencing can funnel the animal directly towards the entrance of your trap. The key is to make the fencing appear as a natural extension of the armadillo’s foraging path and to lead it directly and efficiently toward the trap’s opening. Using natural materials such as logs or rocks to help secure the fencing and make it appear more natural can further increase your success.
When constructing your guiding fence, use materials that the armadillo cannot easily dig under or climb over. Hardware cloth, wooden boards, or even sturdy logs can be used effectively. The fence should be at least 1 foot high and extend from either side of the trap’s entrance, creating a funnel. Extend the fence far enough to intercept the armadillo’s typical travel routes, usually several feet out. Remember to check local regulations regarding trapping and fencing restrictions before implementing this technique.
Well, that about covers it! Armadillo wrangling might seem a bit daunting, but with a little patience and these tips, you’ll hopefully be able to humanely relocate your shelled friend in no time. Thanks for reading, and good luck! Feel free to stop back by for more critter-catching advice anytime.