Key Takeaways -

• Secure your wheelie bins with sturdy lids, locks, and weights to prevent fox access.
• Use scent deterrents like citrus or garlic and install motion sensor lights to keep foxes away.
• Place bird feeders out of reach and regularly clean up spilt seeds to avoid attracting foxes.
• Regularly check for and block access points to prevent foxes from entering your property.

Foxes getting into wheelie bins can cause a mess, attract pests, and create health risks. Keeping foxes out of your bins is important for a clean and safe environment.

We will explain why foxes are attracted to wheelie bins and why it's important to secure them. It will also provide simple and humane ways to keep foxes away from your bins. Keep reading to learn how to prevent foxes from getting into your wheelie bins.

With these tips, you can keep your property clean and safe. Whether you live in urban or rural areas, foxes can be a common problem. So, let's get started on keeping them out of your bins.

Reasons Foxes Target Wheelie Bins

Food Source Availability

Foxes are opportunistic feeders and are always on the lookout for easy meals. Wheelie bins often contain pet food, food scraps and leftovers, which attract foxes with their strong sense of smell. The availability of a regular food source in bins makes them a frequent target for these scavengers.

Shelter and Hiding Spots

In addition to food, foxes seek out safe places to rest and hide from predators. Wheelie bins and the areas around them can provide the perfect shelter. The bins offer a secure, enclosed space where foxes can feel protected, making them an attractive spot for these animals to settle.

Deterrent Methods

Scent Deterrents

Essential oils and sprays can be very effective in keeping foxes away from your bins. By applying these scents around your wheelie bins, you can create an environment that is unpleasant for foxes.

Foxes have a strong sense of smell and are particularly repelled by citrus, garlic, and chilli. Spraying these scents around your bins can deter foxes from approaching.

Ultrasonic Devices

Ultrasonic devices emit high-frequency sounds that are irritating to foxes but inaudible to humans. These devices can effectively keep foxes away from your bins. If you have pets, be cautious with ultrasonic devices.

Some pets might also be affected by the sound. Ensure the device is placed where it won't disturb your pets.

Motion Sensor Lights

Motion sensor lights can scare foxes away by surprising them with sudden light. Foxes dislike being in the spotlight while foraging. Place motion sensor lights near your bins, ensuring they cover the area effectively. Avoid obstructions that might prevent the sensor from detecting foxes.

Noise Deterrents

Loud noises can startle and scare foxes away. Creating noise when you see a fox can be an immediate deterrent. You can use various noise devices, such as air horns or motion-activated alarms. These devices can effectively keep foxes at bay.

Animal Repellents

Animal repellents come in various forms, including tablets and sprays. These are designed to create an unpleasant environment for foxes and other animals.

Place repellents around your bins and in areas where foxes are likely to approach for a few weeks. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best results.

Further Advice, Tips and Tricks

Using Double Bagging

Double bagging your rubbish can significantly reduce leaks and smells, making your bins less attractive to foxes. This method provides an extra layer of protection against tearing and spilling, ensuring that waste is securely contained and odours are minimised.

To properly double the bag, place one bag inside another and securely tie both bags before placing them in the bin. This simple practice not only helps deter foxes but also keeps your bins cleaner and more hygienic.

Installing Bin Storage Units

Bin storage units can provide an additional layer of security against foxes. These units come in various types, such as wooden or metal enclosures, and can blend seamlessly with your garden or patio.

Look for units with secure locks and sturdy construction to ensure that foxes cannot access the bins inside. Some units also feature ventilation to reduce odours and are designed to withstand weather conditions, adding both practicality and aesthetic value to your property.

Community Efforts

Working with your neighbours can help reduce the presence of foxes in your area. By sharing tips and strategies for fox-proofing, you can create a coordinated effort to secure bins and eliminate food sources that attract foxes.

Community strategies might include regular clean-ups, the collective use of deterrents, and even setting up a neighbourhood watch to monitor and address fox activity. By collaborating, you can create a more effective and comprehensive approach to keeping foxes at bay.

Masking the Smell

Masking the smell of your rubbish can deter foxes from approaching your compost bin. Using scented bin bags can help reduce odours, making the bins less appealing to foxes (1).

Additionally, spraying strong-smelling essential oils like citrus or eucalyptus onto the bins can create an unpleasant environment for foxes. These scents are known to repel foxes and can be easily applied around the bin area.

Combining scented bags with essential oil sprays can provide a double layer of protection, ensuring that your bins remain undisturbed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Know If I Have to Call a Pest Control Company?

If you notice persistent fox activity around your property despite trying multiple deterrent methods, it may be time to call a pest control company. Signs include frequent bin raids, damage to your garden, or foxes becoming a regular nuisance.

Professional pest control can offer more effective, humane solutions tailored to your specific situation.

What Do I Do With My Bird Feeders That Are Attracting Foxes?

To prevent foxes from being attracted to your bird feeders, place the feeders at least 5 feet off the ground and away from shrubs or trees that foxes can climb.

Ensure any spilt seeds are cleaned up regularly to lessen attraction. Alternatively, consider using feeders designed to be less accessible to larger animals like foxes.

Conclusion

Keeping foxes out of your wheelie bins is crucial for maintaining a clean and safe environment. By understanding their behaviour, securing your bins, and using effective deterrents, you can minimise their presence.

Regularly inspect and block potential access points to ensure foxes cannot enter your property. Implementing these strategies will help keep your bins undisturbed and your surroundings fox-free.

Sources -

1. https://www.prokill.co.uk/living/what-keeps-foxes-away-from-bins/