You get rid of porcupines in the yard by protecting trees with wire and removing salt sources, with trapping only where legal. Porcupines chew wood for salt and are not strongly deterred by scent. Here is what works.
- Protect trees with wire mesh to stop chewing.
- Remove salt sources like sweaty tool handles and salt blocks.
- Keep pets away, since quills are a veterinary emergency.
- Trapping is regulated in many states.
Protect Trees
Porcupines chew wood for the salt and minerals in it. Wrap tree bases with wire mesh to stop the chewing, which is the most reliable protection and works better than any repellent.
Remove Salt Sources
Porcupines are drawn to salt, including the salt from sweat on tool handles and wooden surfaces. Store tools and salt blocks where porcupines cannot reach them.
Protect Pets
Porcupines are not aggressive, but a dog that confronts one can need veterinary treatment to remove quills. Supervise pets, especially at night. Not sure if this is a DIY job? Take the DIY vs. pro quiz first.
Trapping, Where Legal
For a persistent porcupine, live trapping and relocation is the removal option, but relocation rules vary by state. Check with your state wildlife agency before trapping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Protect trees with wire mesh, remove salt sources, and trap only where legal. Repellents have limited effect.
It is chewing wood for salt and minerals, drawn by salt from sweat on surfaces. Protecting trees and removing salt sources discourages it.
They are not aggressive, but their quills are a veterinary emergency for dogs. Keep pets away.
They have limited effect. Tree protection with wire and removing salt sources are more reliable.
