Protecting Your Arlington, Texas Lawn from Wild Animals and Varmints

As Arlington residents know, our proximity to wooded areas and natural spaces is one of the region's charms. However, this closeness to nature means homeowners often face challenges with wildlife disrupting their carefully maintained lawns. At Handsome Lawn Service, we understand the frustration of discovering holes, digging, and damage across your yard overnight. Here's how you can protect your property from North Texas wildlife while maintaining a beautiful landscape.

Common Wildlife Culprits in Arlington

Several animals native to North Texas frequently cause lawn damage:

• Armadillos: These armored diggers create shallow holes while searching for grubs and insects

• Raccoons: Known for "rolling up" sections of turf while looking for food

• Skunks: Create small, cone-shaped holes when hunting for grubs

• Opossums: Dig shallow holes similar to armadillos

• Feral hogs: Becoming increasingly problematic in suburban areas, causing extensive damage

• Moles and gophers: Create tunnel systems and mounds beneath your lawn

Effective Prevention Strategies

1. Eliminate Food Sources

Most wildlife disrupts your lawn in search of food. Reduce attractants by:

- Treating your lawn for grubs and insects that attract armadillos and skunks

- Securing garbage cans with wildlife-resistant lids

- Removing fallen fruit from trees

- Avoiding leaving pet food outdoors overnight

2. Install Physical Barriers

Strategic barriers can discourage wildlife from entering your property:

- Install sturdy fencing that extends at least 6 inches underground

- For persistent diggers like armadillos, consider adding a gravel trench around the perimeter

- Use motion-activated sprinklers that startle animals with bursts of water

3. Use Natural Deterrents

Many animals dislike certain scents and tastes:

- Plant naturally repellent plants like marigolds, mint, or garlic around your property edges

- Apply commercial repellents made with predator urine or other natural ingredients

- Spread coffee grounds or crushed red pepper in problem areas

4. Maintain Your Landscape

A well-maintained yard is less attractive to wildlife:

- Keep grass trimmed to reduce hiding spots

- Remove brush piles, overgrown areas, and debris

- Trim tree branches that might provide roof access for climbing animals

5. Consider Professional Help

For persistent problems, professional assistance may be necessary:

- Local wildlife removal services can humanely trap and relocate animals

- Professional lawn care services can treat for grubs and other food sources

- Expert landscaping can design your yard to be less appealing to wildlife

When to Call in Professionals

While many wildlife problems can be managed with DIY methods, some situations call for expert help. If you're experiencing:

- Extensive lawn damage that's worsening despite preventative measures

- Signs of potentially dangerous animals like coyotes

- Concerns about rabies or other diseases

It may be time to contact wildlife control professionals or your lawn care service for specialized assistance.

At Handsome Lawn Service, we offer comprehensive lawn care programs designed to discourage wildlife damage through regular maintenance, pest control, and expert landscape management. Our Arlington-based team understands the unique challenges North Texas homeowners face with local wildlife.

Contact us today to learn how we can help protect your lawn while maintaining its beauty and health throughout the year.