Question
QUESTION: We have recently discovered foxes in our fully fenced garden.  We live in London, England.  Our neighbours say they have seen a mother and her cubs.

I have seen adverts for sonic fox repellants and for sprays to get rid of the fox smell and urine etc etc all claiming to be the only ones and the best!

I want to know are these any good and can you reccommend any sure way of getting rid of the foxes.

We do not eat in the garden, there is no food such as veggies or fruit growing and the garden is kept clean, tidy and the lawn is mowed.

Garden size approx 40' in length

ANSWER: I am aware of no peer-reviewed evidence that supports the notion that ultrasound will evict foxes. Most mammals can't even hear in the ultrasonic range. Details on why ultrasound and many repellents fail visit http://icwdm.org

Now as for fox urine. In the U.S. fox urine is used to lure foxes. So I am puzzled as to how it would evict a fox. Coyote urine might work as coyotes are predators on foxes. But would foxes in England know to be scared of an animal that doesn't exist in your country.

I think harassment would be the best method. Simply make the spot unpleasant to live in. Back fill the den, flooding, etc. should work. I want to warn you though to be mindful of your humane laws. There are many animal rights protest industry activists in your country who would frown greatly on any practice (even if legal) against foxes. Not to mention fox lovers.

I am sure you don't want to hear this but is there any particular reason why the foxes must move? Is there a pet you are worried about? Given how little damage foxes would inflict on your property, I am wondering if you could be convinced to consider toleration?

Other methods of control are available at the above site. The problem is most will be illegal in your country.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for your prompt reply.  I want to use a spray to remove the smell of the fox urine, which I believe they use to mark their territory and also because it is killing the grass! Do you know if these work?  But I think I will give the sonic repellant a miss!

I want to get rid of the foxes (1) to ensure our baby grandson can crawl about the lawn safely without the fear of picking up some disease and (b) the foxes are leaving holes in the lawn and the grass is dying in patches where they have left their mark.

You are right toleration should be the order of the day but I am frightened what foxes can do to humans and to the garden and what diseases they carry.  It is only in recent years that London which is a built up densely populated city has had foxes move into it so this is all quite new for me

Answer
I understand. Wildlife do carry diseases that can be harmful to humans. However, it is important that we don't overstate the threat. Info on diseases can be found at http://icwdm.org

You can certainly build a fence that will stop fox entry to your property. It needs to be in the ground at least 6 inches and then extend up 2 meters with an overhang extending away from the property you intend to protect at least 1 foot to prevent climb overs.