Foxes can cause havoc in the garden, with their habit of digging up plants and flowerbeds as they scrabble for insects.
They mark their territory with droppings and noxious odours left disturbingly around your garden.
Small outdoor pets like rabbits also run the risk of becoming a fox’s prey.
Fortunately, several non-harmful natural remedies exist to deter foxes.
Pest control experts at Shield Pest Control suggest that an everyday kitchen ingredient hated by foxes is likely sitting in your spice rack chilli pepper. If spicy food isn’t quite your thing, fret not, there’s another common alternative – garlic.
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The experts advised: “Sprinkling these foods around your garden will naturally prevent foxes from coming near your home and garden. There’s no need to resort to extreme measures if you don’t have to.”
For an effective fox repellant, it’s suggested to use a combination of chilli and garlic. You can boil these two ingredients in water then blend them into a sprayable solution.
The result is a “potent smell” that will have foxes giving a wide birth to your garden.
Other methods to keep foxes out of the garden
Secure fencing
Install a fence around your garden that extends at least a foot underground to prevent foxes from digging underneath it. Make sure the fence is at least 6 feet tall and doesn’t have gaps large enough for a fox to squeeze through.
Motion-activated lights or sprinklers
Foxes are often deterred by sudden movements or loud noises. Installing motion-activated lights or sprinklers can startle them and discourage them from entering your garden.
Remove attractants
Keep your garden clean and free of food sources that may attract foxes, such as fallen fruits, pet food, or compost piles. Secure garbage cans tightly to prevent access.
Remove hiding places
Foxes like to hide in tall grass, bushes, or piles of debris. Keep your garden tidy by trimming overgrown vegetation and removing any potential hiding spots.
Pet presence
If you have a dog, allowing it to spend time in the garden can discourage foxes from entering, as they generally avoid areas inhabited by dogs.
