Foxes are becoming an increasing nuisance for British gardeners, with research indicating the red fox was the most sighted wild animal in the UK last year. Over the past 25 years, foxes have moved into 91% of urban areas previously predicted to support few or none.
According to the Woodland Trust and the Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust, the adult spring population is around 240,000, boosted each April and May by about 425,000 cubs. Experts note foxes are growing bolder in urban settings as they become more comfortable around humans.
To deter foxes humanely, Eric Michels, head of products at Vivara and CJ Wildlife, suggests using common kitchen spices. He told Woman & Home: 'If you're still seeing evidence of unwanted visitors at night, then you can humanely deter foxes by sprinkling certain spices around the perimeter of your outdoor living space. Spices such as cayenne pepper, peppermint and garlic, as the smell will put them off. You can also infuse the spices in boiling water, and then spritz around the garden as an additional repellent.'
Oliver Hill, founder of plant tracker app GardenList, agrees that foxes dislike spicy smells. He recommends spraying a mixture of garlic, chilli pepper and water around the garden perimeter. The capsaicin compound in chilli is particularly effective.
Other practical steps include clearing away food sources, covering vegetable plots, securing rubbish, and maintaining the garden. Using natural deterrents avoids harming birds and insects, aligning with the rewilding trend.
