With their bright eyes and bushy tails, you might think foxes are a charming addition to your neighbourhood.

But they can quickly become a menace if they start digging up your garden, raiding your bins or threatening your pets.

These opportunistic animals are drawn to outdoor spaces that offer easy access to food and shelter – like your garden – experts have warned.

Londoners have recently complained urban foxes are growing more fearless and even darting into their homes.

Experts say they believe the animals have become more brazen and noticeable because they no longer fear humans.

Meanwhile, the number of urban foxes contracting scabies, also known as mange, has skyrocketed.

As breeding season commences, pest controllers have revealed the best way to deter them from your outdoor space.

John Stewart, from Pest–Stop, has shared practical steps to prevent foxes from becoming permanent residents.

Remove food sources

'Foxes will return time and again if there's food available,' Mr Stewart said. 'They'll happily feast on uneaten pet food, waste in bins, small animals like chickens and rabbits, or even bugs in the soil.

'Clean out pet bowls and dishes immediately after feeding to eliminate lingering smells that attract them.

'Store food waste in sturdy plastic or metal bins with secure lids rather than leaving bags out, as foxes will easily tear these open. This also helps prevent any rodent problems occurring.'

Secure small pets and poultry

If you keep chickens, rabbits or other small animals, their safety should be a priority, Mr Stewart explained.

'Make sure hutches and cages are well–constructed and positioned flat on the ground so foxes can't dig underneath at the corners,' he said.

'Weak or raised structures are an open invitation for a hungry fox.'

Block potential den sites early

Foxes typically build dens underneath sheds, decking or at the bottom of gardens, particularly during breeding season, he explained.

'If you spot a fox starting to dig, act immediately,' Mr Stewart said. 'Fill in any holes they've created and cut back dense vegetation near potential entrance points.

'However, if cubs are already present, the parents will keep returning no matter what you do. In this case, you'll need to wait until the young have grown and left before taking preventative action.'

Install proper fencing

Physical barriers remain one of the most effective long–term solutions, Mr Stewart said, adding that a perimeter fence 'at least two metres high' is effective.

'Anti–climb spikes along the top of fences or walls can also prevent them from scaling over,' he said. 'Consider adding a hard border along pathways or pavements to discourage digging in these areas.'

However, it's important to make sure any fencing is installed after cubs have left – otherwise parents will continue trying to access their young.

Use ultrasonic deterrent technology

Modern pest control technology offers an effective, humane solution for keeping foxes at bay, the expert explained, adding: 'Ultrasonic pest deterrers work against a wide range of garden pests, including foxes.

'These devices emit ultrasonic frequencies that are unpleasant to animals but inaudible to humans, making them ideal for residential gardens.

'They provide continuous protection without the need for harmful chemicals or constant maintenance and can be positioned strategically around areas where foxes tend to enter or dig.'

Use scent–based deterrents

Finally, using scent–based repellents can help keep foxes at bay.

'While commercial repellents are available, you can also make a natural deterrent by mixing chilli powder and garlic in boiling water, then spraying it around your garden,' Mr Stewart said.

'This won't harm the foxes but will discourage them from entering.'

Millionaire businessman David Walsh recently infuriated neighbours by erecting an electric fence to keep out foxes at his £44.5million Notting Hill mansion without planning permission.

He claimed that it was justified because his wife was 'scared' of them.

While Mail on Sunday columnist Alexandra Shulman revealed she caught scabies from a fox that wandered into her home and nestled onto her sofa.

The creatures have even found TikTok fame, going viral for fighting in the middle of busy streets, sleeping in central London bushes and running after confused Americans visitors.