8 Ways to Keep Armadillos from Tearing Up the Yard

Armadillos might not look like much of a threat, but they’ll absolutely wreck your lawn overnight if you’re not careful. Once they move in, it’s hard to convince them to leave. Here’s what’s worked for us when it comes to keeping them out—and keeping our yard from looking like a minefield.

Fill in the Grub Buffet

Armadillos go where the bugs are. If your lawn’s full of grubs and beetles, they’ll dig it up looking for snacks. Use a good grub killer in early spring or fall to cut off the food source. It won’t work overnight, but it’s the first step to making your yard less appealing.

Add Motion Lights Near Problem Spots

They’re nocturnal and skittish, so lights that flip on suddenly can scare them off mid-dig. We’ve had the best luck placing solar motion lights near the edge of flower beds and around garden fences where they like to sneak in.

Use a Solid Border

A short barrier of bricks or edging won’t stop them, but a buried hardware cloth “skirt” can. Bury a mesh barrier at least 12 inches deep around gardens or raised beds to keep them from tunneling in. It sounds like overkill—but if you’ve had to replant peppers three times, you’ll get it.

Remove Easy Shelter

Brush piles, wood stacks, and low decks are perfect spots for armadillos to nest. Clean up those sheltered, shady corners where they might dig a den. If they don’t feel safe during the day, they’ll move on.

Spray a Repellent

There are armadillo-specific repellents out there, but most of them are just strong-smelling animal deterrents. Castor oil-based sprays work decently if you reapply after rain. Just don’t expect it to be foolproof—think of it as part of the strategy, not the whole solution.

Keep the Lawn Tidy

High grass and overgrown edges give them cover. Mow regularly and trim around the edges of fences, porches, and structures. Making the yard feel more open can discourage them from creeping in under the radar.

Try a Live Trap

If you’ve got one persistent digger, you might need to trap and relocate. Set the trap along a known path or near a hole they’ve already dug. Use overripe fruit or worms for bait, and check local laws before relocating.

Get a Dog That’ll Patrol

Not all dogs care about armadillos, but the ones that do will send them packing. Our mutt doesn’t even chase them—he just barks loud and often when they’re close. That alone has kept them from settling in again.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.