Foxes are generally nocturnal animals so are likely to increase their activity as the nights get longer.
Although they don’t generally cause harm to humans, they can be destructive to lawns, flower beds and under fences.
They also pose a threat to small pets like rabbits, guinea pigs or even small cats.
Foxes can also carry parasites such as fleas, ticks and worms which they can transmit to pets.
They’re predators and might hunt garden birds, small mammals or amphibians, which can be a concern if you’re trying to protect local wildlife in your garden.
A garden expert has shared six ways you can deter foxes from your garden as well as some key information on their movements and the smells they don’t like.
Do foxes make loud noises at night?
Foxes are often known for their loud calls, particularly during mating season and their screams, barks and howls can be quite disruptive, especially at night.
They’re typically more problematic for households in rural areas, but due to increasing urbanisation, they are becoming more common in suburban and even urban areas as well.
Chris Bonnett at GardeningExpress.co.uk, said: “As the evenings grow longer, we often see an increase in fox activity in the UK – especially as they adapt to more urban and suburban environments.
“Although foxes generally aren’t a threat to people, they can cause havoc in gardens and pose risks to small pets.
Foxes can climb to higher ground (Image: Getty) “To keep these cunning creatures out of your outdoor spaces, focus on addressing things that will typically attract them, like food and habitats.”
How to keep foxes away from gardens without harming them
Chris shared some tips to keep foxes away from your property without causing harm to them.
Secure rubbish and food sources
Food waste will attract foxes so securing rubbish can prevent them from visiting.
Make sure your bins have tight-fitting lids and avoid adding meat, dairy or cooked food to compost heaps – use enclosed compost bins if possible.
Don’t leave pet food or water bowls outside overnight as these can attract foxes.
Secure entry points
If foxes are a particular nuisance in your area, you could consider installing fox-proof fencing which should be at least 6 feet tall and ideally topped with a floppy overhang to make it difficult for foxes to climb.
Block any gaps that are under sheds, decking or fences where foxes might try to burrow or make a den.
Native wild animals in the UK
Use deterrents
Use fox repellents that contain scents foxes dislike such as predator urine, garlic or citrus-based smells, Chris advises.
These can be sprayed around the garden perimeter or near entry points.
Motion-activated devices that emit sudden noises, flashing lights or water sprays can act as deterrents.
Plan your plants
Some plants are said to keep foxes away due to their strong scents such as garlic, marigolds and some herbs like rosemary and mint so you could try planting more of these varieties in your garden.
Modify habitats
Foxes tend to seek cover in dense vegetation so keep shrubs trimmed and lawns mowed to eliminate hiding spots.
Also remove any potential den sites such as woodpiles and avoid leaving toys or tools scattered around the garden.
Try ultrasonic devices
These devices emit a high-frequency sound that is unpleasant for foxes but inaudible to humans and are often used as a non-invasive method to keep foxes away.
The RSPCA also shared some tips for keeping foxes away.
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It said homeowners should “protect fruit or vegetable crops using fences or solid weld-mesh, with holes at least 4cm wide” if they want to deter foxes.
It added: “Don’t use flexible netting as there’s a risk of wildlife getting tangled or caught in it.”
You should also “promptly clear away fallen fruit from trees.”
See more of the RSPCA’s tips for keeping foxes away via the website (linked above).
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