Aiken residents, particularly those in suburban areas, may find themselves sharing their yards with nine-banded armadillos, a species naturally migrating into South Carolina. While these animals are often secretive, their presence can lead to significant property damage, as evidenced by observations in West Ashley, where a resident documented armadillo activity in their yard starting in 2017.
Armadillo burrows, which can range from 6 to 12 feet long with a central den and two to three radiating tunnels, typically measure about 7 inches in diameter and are dug approximately 20 inches below ground. Most burrows have a single entrance. In one instance, an armadillo expanded its burrow twice in the rainy summer of 2019, creating a large berm of clay subsoil around the entrance. The animal also collected pine straw to create a roof over the burrow entrance, an observed behavior during rainy summer periods, possibly for insulation.
The presence of multiple armadillos can exacerbate issues. In mid-June 2023, three armadillos, survivors from a litter of quadruplets, were seen near a compost bin. Ten days later, they reappeared, and due to the burrow no longer being large enough, one dug a new burrow against a garage foundation. This new burrow, located in a warm spot with dense southern shield fern cover, raised concerns about destabilizing the garage slab, especially after four inches of rain in early July led to further excavation.
Tess Moody, a Clemson Forestry and Natural Resources Extension associate, advises against disturbing burrows or blocking entrances, as this can lead to more digging. For homeowners suspecting armadillo activity without a visible burrow, signs include cone-shaped foraging holes, typically 3 or more inches wide and 3 to 6 inches deep, found near plants, irrigation systems, or foundations. To deter digging near foundations, it is recommended to keep plants and low shrub branches 1 to 2 feet away from the building. Hardware cloth or aluminum flashing inserted 18 or more inches deep into the soil can also deter digging in specific areas.
Armadillos are difficult to trap because they primarily eat insects, grubs, and small soil-dwelling vertebrates, making bait ineffective. Trapping may be possible by guiding them into a live trap with temporary fencing. As a last resort, some wildlife and pest control companies suggest euthanasia by pumping carbon monoxide into burrows. It is important to note that armadillos have a lower body temperature than humans, making them carriers of the leprosy bacterium. While most humans are naturally immune, armadillos should not be touched with bare hands. Moody suggests that accepting their presence is often the best approach, as removed armadillos are likely to be replaced by others.
