Viscachas, charming yet disruptive rodents native to South America, can wreak havoc on outdoor seating areas. To protect your furniture and maintain a harmonious outdoor space, consider these proven strategies.

1. Physical Barriers: Install fencing or mesh around seating areas. Opt for materials like chicken wire or metal grids, buried at least 12 inches underground to prevent burrowing.

2. Natural Repellents: Use strong-smelling substances like vinegar, garlic spray, or predator urine (e.g., fox or coyote) around seating. Reapply regularly, especially after rain.

3. Remove Food Sources: Viscachas are attracted to edible scraps. Secure trash bins, avoid leaving pet food outside, and clean up fallen fruits or nuts promptly.

4. Motion-Activated Devices: Install sprinklers, lights, or ultrasonic repellents triggered by movement. These startle viscachas without harming them.

5. Habitat Modification: Trim overgrown vegetation and eliminate hiding spots like rock piles or dense shrubs near seating areas.

6. Professional Assistance: For severe infestations, consult wildlife control experts who use humane trapping and relocation methods.

Combining these methods ensures long-term protection while respecting local wildlife. Consistency and adaptability are key to keeping viscachas at bay.