# Trapping Armadillos: A Humorous and Humane Approach
Dealing with armadillos can be a peculiar problem for homeowners and gardeners alike. These fascinating, yet sometimes troublesome, creatures can wreak havoc on lawns and flowerbeds, leaving behind a trail of overturned earth. If you find yourself asking “how do you trap an armadillo?”, you’re not alone. This guide offers a comprehensive, and often amusing, look at humane and effective methods to manage these nine-banded visitors, ensuring your garden’s integrity without causing undue harm to its shelled inhabitants. Understanding their habits is the first step in successful armadillo wrangling.
Armadillos are primarily nocturnal, emerging from their burrows at dusk to forage for insects, grubs, and other invertebrates. Their strong claws are perfectly adapted for digging, which is precisely why your prize-winning petunias might be mysteriously uprooted. They don’t typically cause structural damage to homes but their burrowing activities can undermine patios, decks, and even building foundations. Control methods should focus on deterrence and live trapping, avoiding any measures that could harm the animal.
**Armadillo Demographics and Biology**
| Category | Information |
| :—————- | :—————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————– |
| **Scientific Name** | *Dasypus novemcinctus* (Nine-banded armadillo) |
| **Common Names** | Nine-banded armadillo, armadillo |
| **Native Range** | Originally South and Central America, now widespread across the southern United States. |
| **Habitat** | Prefers moist, sandy soil for burrowing; found in woodlands, prairies, and suburban areas. |
| **Diet** | Primarily insectivorous: eats insects, grubs, earthworms, ants, termites, and other invertebrates. Occasionally eats small vertebrates, eggs, and plant matter. |
| **Activity Pattern**| Primarily nocturnal, but may be active during the day, especially during cooler weather. |
| **Reproduction** | Typically gives birth to four identical quadruplets from a single egg (monozygotic polyembryony). Gestation period is around 120 days. |
| **Lifespan** | 4-8 years in the wild; up to 20 years in captivity. |
| **Conservation Status**| Least Concern (IUCN). Population is stable and expanding in many areas. |
| **Interesting Trait**| Can jump straight up about 3-4 feet in the air when startled, a defense mechanism that can be surprisingly effective against predators (and sometimes startling to humans). |
| **Reference** | [https://www.fws.gov/species/nine-banded-armadillo-dasypus-novemcinctus](https://www.fws.gov/species/nine-banded-armadillo-dasypus-novemcinctus) |
## Understanding Armadillo Behavior for Effective Trapping
Before you set out to capture an armadillo, understanding its daily routines and preferences is key. These creatures are driven by their search for food, which consists mainly of insects and grubs found underground. They create extensive burrow systems, often with multiple entrances, to serve as shelter from predators and the elements.
### The Allure of the Burrow
Armadillos are masters of excavation. Their burrows can be found in various locations, from beneath dense brush and fallen logs to under decks and sheds.
#### Locating the Lair
* Identifying active burrows is crucial. Look for freshly dug earth and overturned soil nearby, indicating recent activity.
* Armadillos may have several burrows within their territory, so finding one doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve found their primary residence.
* Observe the area at dusk or dawn, when they are most likely to emerge.
By understanding where they live and why they dig, you can better position your traps for success.
Did you know? An armadillo’s armor is made of bony plates called osteoderms, covered by a layer of tough, leathery skin. This armor provides protection but can also lead to a surprising downside: armadillos are not very tolerant of cold weather and can even freeze to death in unusually harsh winters.
## Humane Trapping Techniques
The most effective and ethical way to deal with an armadillo problem is through live trapping. This method allows you to relocate the animal to a more suitable habitat without causing it harm.
### Choosing the Right Trap
Live traps, often called Havahart traps, are the go-to for humane armadillo removal. These cages are designed with a trigger mechanism that, when activated by the animal, closes the door securely behind it.
* **Size Matters:** Opt for a trap that is large enough to comfortably house an armadillo without it feeling cramped. A trap that is at least 30 inches long is generally recommended.
* **Baiting for Success:** The key to a successful trap is the bait. Armadillos are attracted to the same foods they forage for naturally.
#### Baiting Strategies
* **Insect-Based Baits:** Earthworms, mealworms, or commercial grub baits are highly effective. Place a generous amount just inside the trap’s trigger plate and a smaller amount leading up to it to entice the armadillo.
* **Other Attractants:** While insects are primary, some sources suggest that sardines, canned pet food (especially fish-flavored), or even overripe fruit can also work as bait. Experimentation may be necessary.
* **Placement is Paramount:** Position the trap along the armadillo’s known travel paths, near their burrows, or along fences and walls they tend to follow. Ensure the trap is level and stable.
Armadillo Fun Fact: When startled, the nine-banded armadillo has a unique defense mechanism: it can jump vertically up to 4 feet in the air. This sudden leap can sometimes startle would-be predators, or even cause the armadillo to bounce off an overhead obstruction, like the underside of a car.
## Post-Trapping Procedures and Prevention
Once you’ve successfully trapped an armadillo, the next crucial steps involve safe release and preventing future incursions.
### Relocation and Release
* **Check Local Regulations:** Before releasing an armadillo, familiarize yourself with your local wildlife laws regarding trapping and relocating animals. Some areas have specific rules or may require permits.
* **Choose a Suitable Release Site:** Select a location that offers ample food, water, and shelter, ideally at least 5-10 miles away from your property to prevent the armadillo from returning. Avoid releasing it in areas where it might cause problems for other residents or wildlife.
* **Handle with Care:** Wear thick gloves when handling the trap. Armadillos can carry diseases like leprosy, though the risk of transmission to humans is very low. Approach the trap calmly and open it from a safe distance, allowing the animal to exit on its own accord.
### Preventing Future Infestations
* **Habitat Modification:** Armadillos are attracted to areas with plenty of insects and good soil for burrowing. Reducing insect populations in your yard through natural pest control methods can make your property less appealing.
* **Physical Barriers:** Installing sturdy, buried fencing can deter armadillos. The fence should extend at least 12-18 inches into the ground to prevent them from digging underneath.
* **Repellents:** While less effective than trapping, certain repellents can be used as a deterrent. Commercial repellents containing castor oil or predator urine are sometimes used, but their effectiveness can vary.
## Frequently Asked Questions about Armadillo Trapping
### Q1: How long should I leave the trap set?
A1: Leave the trap set continuously, checking it at least twice a day, especially during the morning and evening when armadillos are most active.
### Q2: What should I do if I trap a non-target animal?
A2: If you catch a different animal, carefully release it immediately. Ensure your bait and trap placement are less likely to attract unwanted visitors.
### Q3: Can armadillos harm my pets?
A3: Armadillos are generally not aggressive towards pets. However, they can carry diseases, so it’s best to keep pets from interacting with them.
### Q4: What is the best time of year to trap an armadillo?
A4: Spring and early summer are often considered the best times, as this is when they are most active and foraging for food. However, trapping can be effective year-round in warmer climates.
### Q5: Is it legal to trap and relocate armadillos?
A5: Legality varies by state and local ordinances. Always check with your local wildlife agency before setting any traps.
