Armadillos are known for their destructive foraging habits, digging shallow, cone-shaped holes while seeking soil invertebrates like grubs and earthworms. This nocturnal activity often causes significant damage near foundations, flower beds, and turfgrass. Humane live trapping offers a practical method for removing the nuisance animal and resolving the immediate problem.
Selecting and Preparing the Live Trap
The most effective live trap is a large, wire cage model, often called a raccoon-sized trap. Dimensions of at least 10 inches high, 12 inches wide, and 30 to 32 inches long are generally suitable for the common nine-banded armadillo. Choose a sturdy trap with a spring-loaded door mechanism for a secure and successful capture.
Before deployment, clean the trap thoroughly to remove human odors or chemical smells that might alarm the animal. Always wear heavy gloves when handling the trap during setup to maintain a neutral scent profile. Ensure the trigger plate and door mechanism function smoothly so the trap closes reliably once the animal steps inside.
Strategic Placement and Effective Lures
Successful armadillo trapping relies less on bait and more on strategic placement, capitalizing on the animal’s poor eyesight and predictable travel patterns. Armadillos are habitual creatures that often follow the same paths between their burrows and foraging areas, typically along natural or artificial barriers. Look for signs of activity, such as fresh tracks or a well-worn path, and position the trap directly on that route or near an active burrow entrance.
To maximize the chance of capture, utilize the technique of “funneling” the armadillo directly into the trap opening. Set up wooden planks, large boards, or temporary poultry netting in a “V” shape leading to the trap entrance. Because armadillos tend to walk along edges, they will follow the guiding barrier straight into the cage. Placing a heavy item like a brick on top of the cage prevents wobbling that might otherwise deter the animal.
While placement is paramount, a lure can sometimes encourage entry, though armadillos are not strongly motivated by above-ground food. As they primarily seek insects, the most effective lures mimic their natural diet, such as earthworms or mealworms. To prevent the armadillo from consuming the bait without triggering the mechanism, place the worms inside a nylon stocking and position it behind the trigger plate. Spoiled or overripe fruit can also be used, as the associated odor may attract insects and larvae, which the armadillo then seeks out.
Handling and Relocating the Captured Armadillo
Once an armadillo is successfully trapped, check state and local regulations, as many jurisdictions restrict the relocation of captured wildlife. If relocation is permitted, always wear heavy protective gloves and avoid direct contact with the animal or the inside of the cage. Armadillos can carry the bacteria that causes Hansen’s disease, so caution is necessary.
The armadillo should be transported to a suitable release site several miles away from the capture location to discourage its return. An ideal habitat for release is a moist, forested area, preferably near a water source. This environment provides the soft soil needed for foraging and burrowing, offering the animal the best chance of survival. When releasing the armadillo, stand clear of the door to allow a calm and unimpeded exit from the trap.
Long-Term Exclusion Methods
Trapping removes a single animal, but it does not address the underlying attractants that may encourage other armadillos to move into the territory. Effective long-term control focuses on modifying the habitat to make it less appealing for foraging and burrowing. Reducing excessive lawn irrigation can help dry out the soil, making it less attractive for the grubs and earthworms that armadillos seek.
Physical barriers offer the most reliable form of exclusion for specific areas like gardens or under foundations. Install a sturdy fence, such as galvanized wire mesh, that extends at least 3 feet above the ground. The fence material must be buried at least 12 inches deep into the soil to prevent the armadillo from digging underneath it. An outward slant of the above-ground portion can further deter climbing.