Preventing Wildlife from Digging in Your Yard: Effective Fence and Barrier Methods

Whether you're a farmer with crops to protect or simply a homeowner with a garden and backyard, you might have come across the pesky issue of wildlife digging in your yard. Different methods, including fencing and barriers, can be employed to keep these intruders away. This article explores various fencing systems and barrier techniques that are effective in deterring wildlife from causing damage in your yard.

Understanding Wildlife Digging

Wildlife, such as gophers, skunks, and rabbits, often dig in yards to find food or shelter. These creatures can cause significant damage by destroying crops, damaging plant roots, and leaving unsightly holes. While some methods, like shooting, are not recommended in many areas (such as America), effective fencing and barriers can provide a humane and effective solution.

Stages of Fence and Barrier Systems

The described fence system in the article can be divided into three stages, each designed to create a formidable deterrent for wildlife:

Stage One: Above Ground Fence

The first stage involves an above-ground fence that stands 5-6 feet high. The posts are sunk into concrete-filled holes that are 4 feet deep. This creates a physical barrier that is difficult for most animals to dig around or over. The post installation is critical to ensuring the fence remains stable and effective.

Stage Two: Beneath the Surface

Stage two focuses on a trench dug 2 feet deep and 3 feet wide. Within this trench, two sections of plastic-coated welded wire fencing are installed:

A section 3 feet high, attached to the bottom of the fence and hanging down to the bottom of the trench. A 2-foot 6-inch section, attached to the lower section with plastic rings, laying flat in the bottom of the trench.

The trench is then filled and compacted, creating a barrier that prevents animals from digging under the fence. Even if an animal were to start digging, they would need to dig more than 2 feet from the fence and dig more than 2 feet deep to get under the barrier. This stage significantly enhances the effectiveness of the fence system.

Stage Three: Inside the Fenced Area

Stage three involves a deeper excavation of the entire area to a depth of three feet. The same plastic-coated fencing is laid in rows across the garden area, each crop area being 100 feet by 150 feet. This fencing is connected to the bottom of the fence, and the garden is then filled back in. By tilling the soil to a depth of less than a foot, underground animals like moles and gophers are prevented from accessing the garden. Raised bed gardens also have their bottoms resting directly on the plastic fencing, ensuring that no animals can dig into them.

Conclusion

In conclusion, effective fencing and barrier systems can be a humane and effective way to prevent wildlife from digging in your yard. By employing multiple stages of protection, including above-ground and below-ground barriers, you can create a formidable deterrent for pests such as gophers, skunks, and other underground creatures. A well-designed fence system can protect your crops and create a safe environment for human and animal enjoyment.

Additional Tips

Dogs: While dogs can be effective in deterring wildlife, they should be trained and managed properly to ensure they do not cause harm to the animals or your property.

Bird Feeders and Wildlife Habitats: For areas where wildlife is welcome, consider setting up bird feeders, bird houses, and bat houses. Planting native plants can also provide food and shelter for various wildlife species, contributing to a balanced ecosystem.

Professional Advice: If you're unsure about the best approach or need detailed planning, consider consulting with a local wildlife management expert or a certified agricultural advisor.