Armadillos dig cone-shaped holes while searching for grubs, so removing their food source makes your deck less appealing. If you are wondering how to get rid of armadillos under deck, you need a plan that targets both the animal and its habitat. These nocturnal diggers can cause serious structural damage if they keep tunneling beneath your home.
You do not have to trap or harm them to solve the problem. In most cases, a combination of exclusion, repellent, and habitat modification will send them packing for good. Here is the exact process you should follow to reclaim your yard.
Why Armadillos Love Your Deck
Your deck offers armadillos everything they want. It provides cover from predators, a cool place to rest during the day, and easy access to a buffet of insects. The soil under a deck stays moist and soft, which makes digging effortless for their strong claws.
They are not trying to destroy your property. They are simply following their nose to find food. A single armadillo can eat up to 200 pounds of insects in a year, so they are very motivated to stay where the food is plentiful.
Signs You Have An Armadillo Problem
Before you start any removal plan, you need to confirm the culprit. Look for these clear indicators around your deck and yard:
- Cone-shaped holes that are 3 to 5 inches wide and 1 to 3 inches deep
- Scratch marks on the deck supports or skirting
- Strong musky odor near the crawl space
- Damaged landscaping or uprooted plants overnight
- Visible tunnels or burrow entrances along the foundation
If you see these signs, act quickly. The longer they stay, the more established their burrow becomes. Once they have a den, they will return every night to forage.
How To Get Rid Of Armadillos Under Deck
This is the core of your strategy. You need to make the area inhospitable and physically block them from re-entering. Follow these steps in order for the best results.
Step 1: Remove The Food Source
Armadillos are insectivores. If you eliminate their food, they will leave on their own. Treat your lawn and the soil under your deck for grubs, ants, and beetles.
Apply a granular insecticide that contains carbaryl or imidacloprid. Spread it evenly across the entire yard, not just under the deck. Water the treatment in lightly so it reaches the soil where the grubs live.
You should also remove any standing water sources. Armadillos need moisture to find food, so fix leaky faucets and improve drainage. A drier yard is less attractive to them.
Step 2: Install A Physical Barrier
Exclusion is the most reliable method. You need to bury a barrier around the perimeter of your deck to stop them from digging underneath.
- Dig a trench around the deck that is 12 to 18 inches deep.
- Place 1/4-inch hardware cloth or galvanized wire mesh into the trench.
- Bend the bottom of the mesh outward in an “L” shape, extending it 6 inches away from the deck.
- Backfill the trench with dirt and secure the top of the mesh to the deck skirting with staples or screws.
This L-shaped footer is essential. Armadillos dig downward first, so the outward bend blocks their path. If you only install a straight barrier, they may dig under it.
Step 3: Use Repellents Strategically
Repellents are not a standalone solution, but they can reinforce your barrier. Armadillos rely heavily on their sense of smell, so strong odors can deter them.
You can use castor oil-based repellents, which are safe for pets and plants. Spray the mixture heavily around the deck perimeter and inside the crawl space entrance. Reapply after rain or heavy dew.
Some homeowners have success with ammonia-soaked rags placed near the burrow. The fumes are offensive to the animal, but you must check and refresh them daily. Do not use this method if you have pets that can access the area.
Step 4: Set Up Live Traps
If the armadillo is already living under your deck, you may need to trap it. Use a live trap that is at least 10 x 12 x 32 inches. Smaller traps are ineffective because the animal will not fully enter.
Place the trap near the burrow entrance or along the path they use to enter the deck. Use earthworms, overripe fruit, or mealworms as bait. Armadillos are not easily lured, so you must place the trap exactly where they are active.
Check the trap every few hours. Once captured, relocate the animal to a rural area that is at least 5 miles away, preferably near a water source. Check your local regulations first, as some states have restrictions on relocation.
Step 5: Seal The Burrow
After you are sure the animal is gone, you must seal the burrow entrance. If you close it while they are inside, they will dig out and may cause more damage.
Stuff the entrance with crumpled newspaper and dirt. Check it for two days to see if the armadillo pushes it out. If it remains undisturbed, fill the hole completely with dirt and pack it down firmly.
Then, install the wire mesh barrier as described in Step 2. This prevents any new armadillo from moving in and digging a fresh burrow.
Natural Deterrents That Actually Work
Many people ask about natural options that do not involve chemicals. While these are less reliable, they can help when used alongside physical barriers.
Motion-Activated Sprinklers
Armadillos are startled by sudden water sprays. Install a motion-activated sprinkler near the deck. When the animal approaches, it gets sprayed and learns to avoid the area. This works well because it disrupts their nightly routine.
Predator Urine
You can purchase granulated coyote or fox urine from garden centers. Sprinkle it around the perimeter. The scent signals danger, which may keep armadillos away. However, this needs to be reapplied frequently, especially after rain.
Bright Lights
Armadillos prefer darkness. If you can keep a bright light on under the deck, they will feel exposed and vulnerable. Use a waterproof LED floodlight and leave it on during the night for a week or two.
Preventing Future Armadillo Problems
Once you have removed the current animal, you must maintain your defenses. An armadillo that passes through will remember the good foraging spot. If you leave the door open, they will come back.
Regularly inspect the perimeter of your deck for new holes. Check the mesh barrier for rust or damage. Keep the area under the deck clean and free of debris that could attract insects.
Trim back bushes and shrubs that provide cover near the deck. A wide-open yard is less inviting to a shy animal. Also, keep your grass cut short so they cannot hide in tall vegetation.
Maintain Your Yard
Healthy soil with balanced insect populations is less attractive to armadillos. Overwatering creates the perfect environment for grubs, so water your lawn deeply but infrequently. This encourages deeper root growth and reduces surface moisture.
Remove any piles of wood, leaves, or rocks from your yard. These materials harbor insects and give armadillos a place to hide during the day. Keep the area around your deck clear and tidy.
When To Call A Professional
Sometimes, the problem is too large for DIY methods. If you have multiple armadillos or a very large burrow system, you should call a wildlife removal service. They have the experience and equipment to handle the situation safely.
Professionals can also perform a full exclusion service, which involves sealing all potential entry points around your entire foundation. This is a worthwhile investment if you live in an area with a high armadillo population.
Do not attempt to handle or corner an armadillo. They can carry leprosy, although transmission to humans is extremely rare. They also have sharp claws and can scratch if they feel threatened. Always prioritize your safety.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
There are several common errors that make the problem worse. Avoid these to save yourself time and frustration.
- Do not use poison. It is inhumane and the animal may die under your deck, causing a terrible odor.
- Do not use mothballs. They are not effective and are illegal to use as a pesticide in many areas.
- Do not close the burrow without confirming the animal is gone. You will trap it inside.
- Do not rely on repellents alone. They are a temporary fix, not a permanent solution.
Patience is key. Armadillos are creatures of habit, so it may take a week or two for them to change their behavior. Stay consistent with your methods and they will eventually move on.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Mothballs Get Rid Of Armadillos Under My Deck?
No. Mothballs are not registered for outdoor animal control. They are ineffective and pose a health risk to children and pets. Use a castor oil repellent or physical barrier instead.
How Deep Do Armadillos Dig Under A Deck?
They typically dig burrows that are 6 to 8 inches wide and up to 15 feet long. The entrance is usually just deep enough for them to squeeze under, but they can dig down 3 to 4 feet if they are establishing a den.
Do Armadillos Carry Diseases That Affect Humans?
Armadillos can carry the bacteria that causes leprosy, but human transmission is very rare. It is still wise to wear gloves if you must handle traps or touch areas where they have been.
What Time Of Night Are Armadillos Most Active?
They are most active between 8 PM and midnight, and again in the early morning hours. They will often emerge after a rainstorm because the soil is softer and insects are more accessible.
Can I Use A Ultrasonic Repellent For Armadillos?
There is no scientific evidence that ultrasonic devices repel armadillos. They are not sensitive to high-frequency sounds. Your money is better spent on exclusion fencing and habitat modification.
Final Thoughts On Removing Armadillos
Getting rid of armadillos under your deck is a straightforward process if you follow the right steps. You need to remove their food, block their entry, and make the area uncomfortable. The physical barrier is the only permanent solution, so do not skip that step.
Start by treating the lawn for grubs and inspecting the deck perimeter. Then, install the wire mesh and set a trap if necessary. With a little effort and consistency, you can keep your deck safe and armadillo-free.
Remember that these animals are just looking for a meal. By removing the buffet and closing the door, you solve the problem without harming the wildlife. Your deck will be structurally sound, and your yard will be free of those unsightly cone-shaped holes.
Take action this weekend. The longer you wait, the more damage they can do. Follow the guide above, and you will see results within a few weeks. Your yard will be back to normal, and you can enjoy your outdoor space without worrying about uninvited guests.