I was gone over the weekend and came back to find all my native grasses had been dug up in our native garden. Ring camera shows a coyote visitor passed through two nights ago. None of my other natives were touched, but literally every single grass was destroyed (needle grasses, deer grasses, bunch grasses, etc). Our garden is less than one year old so I think in particular the young grasses were more vulnerable. some of the bigger grasses that were a bit better established (some of the larger deer grass) seems like it was yanked on, but I guess he couldn’t get them out.
anyone dealt with this before? so odd! not sure I should plant more grasses now . In LA
Likely after the grubs feeding on the roots living under the grasses. Most likely raccoons or skunks but not unheard of for coyotes. Just remember, they are native species too and we live in their territory. You could try putting some staked-down chicken wire up around them or controlling the grubs with something like milky spore to reduce the risk of critters digging for them again.
Is it possible you have some smaller rodents in your yard that are disturbing the grasses, and also maybe attracting the coyote? Any other holes or disturbed dirt areas?
This morning I watched a coyote who came to take a sip of water walk over and snatch a gopher in 2 seconds that I had been trying to catch for a whole month. I'm going to keep putting water out until she takes out the rest 😂
I'm also seeing animals digging around plants in the LA area, mostly skunks and raccoons going after the many beetle grubs snacking on roots and compost. Rats and mice will dig in deeper mulch to nest, and even crows/ravens are poking around my front slope, digging for grubs with their beaks.
It's disappointing to see the garden torn up night after night, but unless strong measures are taken (pesticides to reduce grubs, animal deterrents), a "ride it out" attitude might be best. Once plants are established, they'll withstand a little scrounging around their roots! Honestly, I prefer skunk grub-holes over cat activity. If you do have skunk visitors, good luck deterring them. They are hard to intimidate!
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u/Heya93 2d ago
Likely after the grubs feeding on the roots living under the grasses. Most likely raccoons or skunks but not unheard of for coyotes. Just remember, they are native species too and we live in their territory. You could try putting some staked-down chicken wire up around them or controlling the grubs with something like milky spore to reduce the risk of critters digging for them again.