Foxes are endemic creatures in the city of London. In fact, some may say they are as much part of the city’s landscape as the River Thames or the Tower Bridge. However, when these animals find a way to your garden, they can pose a potential threat to your property and pets. Foxes are known for their scavenging habits, and they won’t hesitate to rummage through your rubbish bins or destroy your flower beds in search of food. But fear not, in this comprehensive guide, you will find the most effective ways to keep these creatures at bay and protect your garden.
Understanding Fox Behaviour
Understanding the behaviour of foxes is the first step in controlling their presence in your garden. Foxes are mostly nocturnal creatures, although in cities like London, they have been known to roam around during the day as well. They are attracted to gardens that provide easy access to food, such as open bins or fallen fruits.
Foxes are also territorial animals. They mark their territories with urine and faeces, which can be a nuisance in a garden setting. If a fox finds plentiful food in your garden and perceives it as a safe place, it’s very likely that it’ll return, keeping your garden under its control.
Implementing Physical Deterrents
Physical deterrents are often the most effective means to keep foxes from entering your garden. A sturdy fence is a good first line of defence. Foxes are agile climbers, so the fence should be high enough (at least 6 feet) and designed in a way that prevents foxes from getting a grip.
You can also install roller bars or spikes on top of the fence, but ensure these are humane and will not harm the animals. Fox-proof gates are another effective option. Remember, foxes are skilled diggers, so it’s also important to secure the base of the fence by burying it deep into the ground.
Using Repellents
Repellents can be another effective tool in your fox-deterrent arsenal. They come in various forms such as sprays, pellets, and electronic devices.
Sprays and pellets usually contain ingredients that foxes find repugnant. These are typically applied to the areas where foxes frequent or where they have marked their territories. It’s essential to reapply these regularly, especially after rain.
Electronic repellents, on the other hand, use high-frequency sound that is unpleasant to foxes but not audible to humans. Some devices also combine ultrasonic sound with flashing lights to further deter these animals.
Garden Management
Your garden management practices can significantly influence whether foxes will find your garden attractive or not. Start by securing your food waste in bins with tight-fitting lids so as not to attract these animals.
Make sure to clear any fallen fruits from your garden promptly. Avoid leaving pet food outdoors, especially overnight, as this can be a feast for a fox. Compost heaps can also attract foxes, so it’s best to keep these covered or enclosed in a bin.
Engaging Professional Help
If you’ve tried everything and still find foxes roaming your garden, it may be time to seek professional help. Pest control services can assess your garden, identify the reasons why foxes are attracted to it, and provide tailored solutions.
Remember, it’s illegal to trap or harm foxes in the UK without a proper license. Always opt for humane control methods and give credit to the fact that foxes are part of our ecosystem and have a role to play in it.
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to deterring foxes from your garden. The best approach often involves a combination of methods tailored to your specific circumstances. With these tips, you should be well-equipped to protect your garden from these clever creatures.
Adopting Fox-Resistant Landscaping Techniques
You can further deter foxes from your London garden by adopting specific landscaping techniques. Foxes tend to avoid open, exposed areas as they prefer to move around unseen. Therefore, maintaining your garden well-cropped and clear of excessive undergrowth can make it less appealing to these animals.
Consider the use of gravel or pebbles in your garden paths and around buildings. Foxes dislike walking on such materials because of the noise it makes underfoot, which exposes their presence.
Another landscaping technique is to plant prickly or spiky plants, such as holly or hawthorn, around the boundaries of your property. Such plants can act as a natural deterrent, discouraging foxes from digging or resting in these areas.
Additionally, avoid creating hiding spots or potential den sites for foxes. Regularly check your garden for holes or burrows. If you find any, fill them in promptly with chicken wire or heavy stones followed by soil. This ensures any fox looking for a safe place to burrow will be discouraged and move on.
Illuminating Your Garden
Foxes are, by nature, shy creatures that prefer the cover of darkness. As such, illuminating your garden can be an effective way to deter these nocturnal visitors.
Installing motion sensor lights can be particularly effective. When a fox triggers the light, it will likely be startled and opt to retreat. Plus, the sudden light illumination enables you to spot any fox activity if you’re up during the night.
Bear in mind, however, that while lights can be a good deterrent, they should be used responsibly. Make sure they are positioned in a manner that does not disturb your neighbours or cause light pollution.
In Conclusion
Foxes are a common part of London’s urban wildlife, and while they may be charming to watch from a distance, they can cause significant problems if they take a liking to your garden. However, by understanding their behaviour and implementing the right combination of fox deterrents, you can keep foxes at bay and protect your property.
Remember to secure your bins, manage your garden effectively, and consider the use of physical deterrents like fences and repellents. But above all, remember that a successful fox control strategy requires patience and perseverance.
If all else fails, remember you can always seek help from a licensed pest control professional. They can provide advice and solutions geared towards your specific situation. With these steps in mind, you can reclaim your garden and enjoy it without the constant worry of fox intrusion. Despite the challenge they pose, it’s important to remember that urban foxes are part of London’s unique ecosystem and deserve to be treated humanely. By acting responsibly and considerately, we can find a balance where humans and foxes coexist peacefully.
