Plains viscachas, large rodents native to South America, can cause significant damage to outdoor seating, especially in rural or semi-urban areas. To protect seating from these persistent animals, consider the following effective strategies:

1. Use Rodent-Proof Materials: Opt for metal, hard plastic, or treated wood for seating, as these materials are less appealing and more resistant to gnawing.

2. Install Physical Barriers: Surround seating areas with wire mesh or fencing buried at least 12 inches underground to prevent burrowing.

3. Modify Their Habitat: Remove nearby food sources like fallen fruits or garbage, and trim vegetation to reduce hiding spots near seating areas.

4. Apply Natural Deterrents: Use repellents such as pepper spray, vinegar, or commercial rodent deterrents around seating to discourage viscachas.

5. Employ Humane Trapping: If infestations persist, use live traps to relocate viscachas away from seating areas, ensuring compliance with local wildlife laws.

Combining these methods can significantly reduce damage while maintaining a humane approach to wildlife management. Regular maintenance and vigilance are key to long-term success.