Armadillos are fascinating creatures, often spotted shuffling through underbrush with their distinctive armored shells. While their appearance may seem harmless, property owners and gardeners frequently ask whether these animals pose a real threat to landscapes and structures. The short answer is yes, armadillos can be destructive, but the nature and extent of that damage depend heavily on their search for food and the environment they inhabit.
Understanding the Foraging Behavior
The primary reason armadillos are considered destructive stems from their relentless foraging. These animals have a low metabolic rate and must consume a significant amount of insects daily to survive. Their preferred diet consists of grubs, beetles, and insect larvae, which they locate by burrowing under the soil. Consequently, the destruction is not an act of malice but a biological necessity driven by their appetite for pests that live underground.
The Mechanism of Damage
Armadillos dig using their strong claws and snouts, creating a series of shallow trenches across a lawn or garden. As they excavate these trenches—often resembling a raccoon’s method but shallower—they overturn soil and uproot small plants in their quest for food. This behavior transforms a manicured lawn into a patchwork of unsightly ridges, which not only ruins the aesthetic appeal but can also damage the root systems of grass, leading to patches of dead turf.
Impact on Property and Structures
Beyond surface-level landscaping issues, armadillos can cause structural damage that is far more serious. If an armadillo takes residence under a porch, deck, or foundation, it may dig extensive tunnel systems to create a safe shelter. These burrows can undermine the integrity of concrete slabs and support beams. Over time, the constant digging can create voids under structures, potentially leading to settling or cracking that requires expensive repairs.
Landscape destruction through random digging patterns.
Uprooted plants and damaged irrigation lines.
Burrowing under structures causing foundational stress.
Creation of hazardous sinkholes in walkways or patios.
Disease and Contamination Risks
The destructive nature of armadillos extends beyond physical damage to health concerns. These animals are natural carriers of leprosy, albeit in low numbers, and they can shed the bacteria into the soil through their feces. Handling soil or plants contaminated by an armadillo increases the risk of transmission. Additionally, their burrows can accumulate bacteria and parasites, turning a backyard into a zone of concern for pets and children who play outside.
Differentiating from Other Pests
It is important to distinguish armadillo damage from that of other burrowing animals, such as moles or gophers. Moles typically create volcano-shaped mounds and focus exclusively on live tunnels, whereas armadillo damage is characterized by a series of shallow, trench-like holes about 3 to 5 inches deep. Recognizing these patterns is crucial for implementing the correct removal strategy, as trapping methods for armadillos differ significantly from those for insects or rodents.
Mitigation and Exclusion
Addressing an armadillo problem requires a combination of deterrence and exclusion. Because they are protected in many regions, the focus should be on making the environment less appealing rather than lethal means. Securing garbage, removing brush piles, and installing a sturdy fence that extends a few inches underground can discourage them from settling on a property. For persistent issues, consulting a wildlife professional ensures that the animals are relocated humanely while protecting the integrity of the home and landscape.
