What’s Digging Up My Lawn? Stop Birds, Foxes & Badgers—Without Harming Wildlife (West Sussex Guide)

Why is my lawn being dug up?

Usually because grubs (chafer or leatherjackets) are present. Wildlife (and birds) are helping themselves—your lawn is the buffet.

Step one: address the food source

• Confirm grubs: Lift a small turf section; look for white C-shaped chafer grubs or grey leatherjackets.
• Biological control: Apply nematodes (late summer/early autumn when larvae are active).
• Cultural repair: Aerate and overseed to thicken grass and discourage egg-laying.

Protect the surface (humanely)

• Temporary mesh netting pegged down overnight (remove for mowing).
• Motion lights or scent deterrents on fox routes (rotate to prevent habituation).
• Repair flipped turf promptly; topdress and water so it re-roots.

Prevention going forward

• Autumn aeration to reduce thatch (fewer egg-laying sites).
• Balanced feeding for stronger roots.
• Regular checks in May–June (chafer flight) and Sept–Oct (larvae active).

Legal note (UK): Badgers are protected. Focus on grub reduction and non-harmful deterrents—not trapping or interference.

We provide grub diagnosis, nematode treatments and lawn repairs across Chichester, Arundel, Emsworth and Littlehampton.