Armadillo Control

Armadillo Control, Trapping & Removal Services

We can rid you of Armadillo problems safely and efficiently

Closely related to the noble anteater, armadillos are burrowing insectivores that thrive throughout the warm southern regions of the United States. Mainly found along the Gulf Coast with growing populations in Texas and Florida, the mammals have an unfortunate propensity for becoming roadkill. Although many different species of armadillos exist throughout their native range in the South and Central Americas, only one species lives in the United States: the nine-banded armadillo.

ASK A TECHNICIAN ABOUT Armadillo Control

Learn More

APPEARANCE

Armadillos are unique among mammals because they have tan, bony shells that protect them like suits of armor. About the size of a large house cat, these animals can weigh between 10 and 15 pounds. The stubby legs of armadillos are tipped with long claws, which make them excellent diggers and climbers. The creatures can run swiftly despite their appearance and are capable swimmers, as well. Armadillos have pointed snouts and beady eyes.

DIET

Their diet mainly consists of insects, but armadillos also nibble on fruit and carrion given the opportunity. They use long tongues to lick up ants and termites in their nests. Other favorite foods include beetles, spiders, worms, and grubs. Occasionally, armadillos eat small frogs, lizards, snakes, or eggs as snacks.

HABITAT

Since they are dangerously susceptible to fatality in cold environments, armadillos prefer to make their homes in warm, temperate areas such as shrubby deserts, grasslands, and rainforests. The animals dig burrows with their powerful claws and sleep for up to 16 hours a day, emerging during twilight to search for food. Armadillos dig several burrows in the area surrounding their nests to use for escaping predators. Burrows are usually located in loose, sandy soils and entrances are strategically placed in the shelter of rocks, dense shrubs, or trees.

TREATMENT SOLUTIONS

ENTRY INTO HOMES OR BUSINESSES

Burrows may inadvertently extend beneath houses, but armadillos are not inclined to enter human dwellings. However, they may venture into residential yards, agricultural properties, and pastures in search of adequate nesting sites or food sources.

PROBLEMS & DAMAGE

Armadillos can cause problems when they dig in gardens and yards looking for grubs. Their feeding activities leave behind holes several inches deep, tear up flowerbeds, uproot shrubs and saplings, and destroy garden vegetables. Additionally, armadillo digging can undermine the structural integrity of foundations, driveways, and sidewalks when the animals burrow under these areas. Their digging while foraging for food and burrowing may also increase the potential for topsoil erosion. Armadillos have been known to carry the bacteria responsible for causing leprosy, which may transfer to humans who come into physical contact with the creatures.

PREVENTION & EXCLUSION

The best way to exclude armadillos from private properties is to remove their access to food sources. Colonies of ants or termites in residential areas should be eliminated, which can be a rather involved process requiring the talents of pest control specialists. Although armadillos are proficient climbers and burrowers, they can be restricted from yards and gardens by installing outward-angled fences buried at least a foot into the ground.

TRAPPING & REMOVAL

Individuals should never attempt to trap or handle wild armadillos without the assistance of wildlife control specialists. Trutech wildlife experts can safely remove the nuisance animals and safeguard property owners from the risk of harmful bites, scratches, and bacterial infections.