Why foxes come into gardens
Foxes are looking for food, shelter and somewhere safe to raise cubs. Food waste, bird food, pet food, compost and the space under sheds and decking all attract them. Gardens near railway lines, parks, cemeteries and allotments see the most foxes.
Signs of foxes
- Holes dug in lawns and flowerbeds, especially in spring when they search for grubs
- Strong, musky smell and droppings left in prominent places
- An earth (den) under a shed, decking or in overgrown areas
- Screaming and barking at night, particularly from December to February during the breeding season
- Chewed garden furniture, shoes and toys left outside
The law
Foxes are protected by animal welfare law against cruelty, including the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and the Wild Mammals (Protection) Act 1996. Poisoning foxes is illegal. Humane deterrence and proofing are the right approach in gardens.
Humane ways to deter foxes
- Remove food: secure bins and food caddies, do not leave pet food out and clear fallen fruit
- Stop feeding birds on the ground and clear up spilt seed
- Block access under sheds and decking with buried galvanised mesh, after making sure no foxes or cubs are inside
- Use scent deterrents and motion-activated water sprinklers in areas foxes use
- Fill in holes promptly
Cubs
Fox cubs are born in March and April and stay in the earth until early summer. Do not block an earth while cubs may be inside. The best time to proof sheds and decking is late summer to early winter.
How we help
We survey the garden, check for an active earth and plan humane deterrence and proofing at the right time of year. See fox deterrence.
Questions and answers
Can foxes be trapped and moved?
Moving foxes is rarely effective, as others soon move in. Deterrence and proofing work better and avoid welfare problems.
Are foxes dangerous to pets?
Foxes generally avoid cats and dogs. Small pets such as rabbits and guinea pigs need secure hutches.
Do foxes carry fleas or mange?
They can carry fleas and sarcoptic mange. Keep pets treated against fleas and avoid contact with foxes.
Related pages
This page is general information, last reviewed on 19 October 2026. It is not a substitute for an on-site inspection.