Armadillos
{Dasypus novemcinctus}
Armadillos are mammals that belong to the order Cingulata and have a leathery armored shell, longclaws, and somewhat elongated snout. Armadillos have a tail and short legs, though they can move quite fast. When threatened by a predator, some species of armadillo can curl upi nto a ball for safety. There are several species of armadillos identified by the number of bands on their armor, their size(armadillos range in length from 5 inches up to
60 inches), and the location they live in. For help with armadillo identification, contact Running Wild the moment you see one of these pests on your property.
Are Armadillos Dangerous?
While armadillos aren't the most harmful pests to
end up with on your property, they can still be
dangerous, especially if allowed to thrive there.
Armadillos will use their sharp claws to dig and
forage for food, ruining the appearance of your
property and contributing to topsoil erosion.
They also cause serious structural damage once
they start digging around the foundation or driveway of your home. Additionally, armadillos can carry the bacteria that causes leprosy. A widespread armadillo
invasion can lead to an increased risk of contact
with one of these critters and a higher chance of
picking up leprosy or other harmful bacteria.
Why Do I Have An Armadillo
Problem?
If you're noticing armadillos moving onto your
property, then you are likely attracting them with
easy access to food, water, or shelter. These
basic necessities are a draw to most pests, and
you can deter armadillo problems by evaluating
your property for these attractants and removing
them. Running Wild can help you with this
process.
Where will I find
armadillos?
Armadillos are a burrowing type of animal. They
love areas with moist, porous soil as this is easier
for them to create burrows. They will spend up to
sixteen hours sleeping in their burrows, emerging
only to scavenge for food and water. Around your
property, you are likely to find signs of armadillos
burrowing in moist soil, near vegetable gardens,
under overgrown bushes, or near crawl spaces
and the foundation of your property, as these
offer the most strategic burrow locations.
How Do I Get Rid Of
Armadillos?
Getting rid of armadillos is a job for the
professionals at Running Wild. Our team will first
carefully evaluate your property for signs of
armadillos and conditions that might encourage
armadillo activity before humanely and safely
removing these pests. In no time, your property
will be free from destructive and potentially
dangerous armadillo invaders. Contact us at the
first sign of armadillos to get started.
How Can I Prevent Armadillos In The Future?
You can prevent armadillos in the future by following these simple deterrent steps:
Utilize in-ground fencing that runs at least a foot into the ground to keep armadillos away from your property. Eliminate armadillo food sources such as
colonies of termites or ants and reduce access to vegetable gardens on your property.
Place pine needles and mothballs around the areas you want to keep armadillos out of, as their sensitive noses hate these scents, and they will avoid hiding in those areas.
Contact Running Wild today if you need more help with armadillo prevention or removing pest wildlife from your property.