Gardeners planting bulbs or new plants this autumn may want to protect them from foxes and badgers, which can dig up areas if they smell something tasty. Experts at the online outdoor furnishings store Vonhaus have shared ways to keep animal visitors away from flower beds.
Laura Bradbury, head of e-commerce at Vonhaus, said trying to keep away from passing animals entirely is not always feasible. She said: "Trying to completely block foxes from a garden is not always practical, particularly if they regularly use it as a route between neighbouring spaces. Instead, homeowners should focus on removing the things most likely to encourage foxes to stop, dig or create mess."
Two additions to try
To give new flowers the best chance to grow undisturbed, Bradbury recommends two additions. She said: "Newly planted beds and loose soil can also attract digging, so temporary mesh or low barriers can help protect these areas while plants become established."
She also suggests leaving a clear route rather than blocking every possible entrance. "Rather than blocking every possible entrance, leaving a clear route around the edge of the garden may encourage foxes to pass through without disturbing lawns, flower beds or seating areas," she said.
Lightweight accessories, cushions and toys should also be stored away overnight so they cannot be moved or damaged.
Quick changes to deter foxes
To stop attracting foxes into the garden, Bradbury recommends these quick changes:
- Keep bins and compost containers securely closed
- Clear away food after barbecues or outdoor dining
- Avoid leaving pet food outside overnight
RSPCA warning on legal protections
Animal welfare advocates from the RSPCA recently spoke out to explain the legal protections that apply to foxes. Dr Rebecca Machin, wildlife expert with the charity, said: "Foxes are wild animals who are protected by law and it is illegal to cause them unnecessary suffering. Foxes are protected by the Wild Mammals (Protection) Act 1996, and if in captivity, by the Animal Welfare Act 2006."
In line with these legal protections, you are not allowed to cruelly mistreat or remove a fox from your garden by harming it, use pesticide poisoning or fox hunting, use any deterrent that is not approved for use to deter foxes, or block or interfere with a fox den that is in use.
