Best animal fencing pros near Fredericktown, MO

There isn’t one best type of trap for an armadillo. However, Havahart and Tomahawk live wire cages are popular two-door brands commonly used for armadillos. One study suggests wooden traps with armadillo scent on them can increase the chance of success. It’s worth inquiring whether your local wildlife extension has scented traps or wire types available for rent.

Identifying the specific animal running on your roof at night can be challenging without direct observation. Common nocturnal roof visitors include raccoons, squirrels, opossums, and rats. Raccoons are bigger and can create heavy thumping sounds. Squirrels are agile and may produce rapid scurrying noises. Opossums tend to move stealthily with less noise. Rats can make scratching or gnawing sounds. To determine the culprit, look for signs like footprints, droppings, or damaged areas near the roof. For accurate identification, consult a pest control professional or set up wildlife cameras near potential entry points.

Armadillos are most active during cooler hours to avoid extreme temperatures, particularly the daytime heat in the warm climates where they live. This activity pattern helps them reduce the risk of overheating and dehydration. They are generally active from late at night to early morning, often between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m., but can also be seen around dawn and dusk. An exception to this is during mating season (June-July in the northern hemisphere, November-December in the southern hemisphere), when male armadillos may be more active than usual.

You can take multiple approaches to keep animals out of your edible landscape. You can use natural repellents such as mint and cayenne pepper to deter them from your garden. You can also build a fence (or opt for a privet hedge) or keep the most enticing plants in a sectioned-off area. The most efficient method of keeping your four-legged guests at bay is to determine what animal it is and create a customized plan for them.