How To Keep Javelina Away

How to Keep Javelina Away From Your Property

Javelina, also known as collared peccaries, are fascinating creatures, but they can become a nuisance when they raid your garden or yard. These wild pigs are resourceful and persistent, so keeping them away requires a multi-pronged approach. This guide will provide you with effective and humane methods to deter javelina from your property.

Understanding Javelina Behavior: The First Step to Deterrence

Before implementing any javelina deterrent, it's crucial to understand their behavior. Javelina are attracted to easily accessible food and water sources. They are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. Knowing this helps you target your preventative measures effectively.

What Attracts Javelina?

• Food Sources: Fallen fruit, pet food, birdseed, unsecured garbage, and even the roots of certain plants are all tempting to javelina.
• Water Sources: Access to water, even a small puddle, can attract them, especially during dry periods.
• Shelter: Areas with dense vegetation provide cover and protection from predators, making them attractive to javelina.

Effective Javelina Deterrents: A Multi-Layered Approach

A combination of methods is usually the most effective approach to deter javelina. Relying on a single method may not be sufficient to keep them away permanently.

Physical Barriers: Keeping Javelina Out

• Fencing: This is the most effective long-term solution. Choose a sturdy fence, at least 3 feet high, and bury it several inches underground to prevent digging. Consider using wire mesh at the bottom to prevent them from squeezing under.
• Chicken Wire: If a full fence isn't feasible, you can use chicken wire to protect individual plants or smaller areas.
• Repellent Plants: Certain plants have a strong odor that javelina dislike. Planting these around your property can create a natural barrier. Examples include lavender, rosemary, and sage.

Sensory Deterrents: Using Sight, Sound, and Smell

• Motion-Activated Sprinklers: The sudden spray of water startles javelina and discourages them from returning.
• Noisemakers: Radio, wind chimes, or other noise-making devices can be effective, especially when combined with other methods.
• Strong-Smelling Repellents: Commercial javelina repellents are available that contain scents javelina find unpleasant. Apply these regularly according to the product instructions. Note: The effectiveness of these repellents can vary.

Removing Attractors: Cutting Off the Supply

• Secure Garbage: Keep garbage cans tightly sealed and store them in a secure location, ideally inside a garage or shed.
• Pet Food Management: Bring pet food inside at night and clean up any spilled food immediately.
• Bird Feeder Management: Consider using bird feeders that are javelina-proof or remove them altogether during periods of high javelina activity.
• Clean Up Fallen Fruit: Regularly collect fallen fruit from trees and plants.

Maintaining a Javelina-Free Environment

Keeping javelina away requires consistent effort and vigilance. Regular maintenance and monitoring are crucial.

• Inspect your property regularly: Check for any signs of javelina activity, such as digging, rooting, or droppings.
• Reapply repellents: As needed, reapply commercial repellents or replace any damaged barriers.
• Adapt your approach: If one method isn't working, try a different combination of deterrents.

By understanding javelina behavior and utilizing a combination of these methods, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of javelina causing problems on your property. Remember, patience and persistence are key to success in keeping these intriguing animals at bay.