Deer Fence Height Guide: Your Questions Answered

by Harvey Croft

22nd July 24

Protecting your property from deer incursions is essential, as these animals can cause significant damage to crops, gardens, and newly forested areas. Proper deer fencing, particularly selecting the right height, is a crucial aspect of this protection. 

The British Deer Society emphasises the importance of understanding deer behaviour and tailoring fence height to specific species to maximise effectiveness. Deer are adept jumpers and can clear surprisingly high obstacles, so knowing the optimal height for your fence can mean the difference between a secure property and one that’s susceptible to deer damage.

This guide delves into the intricacies of deer fencing, covering species-specific requirements, terrain challenges, and other critical factors that influence fence height. 

By understanding these elements, property owners can implement effective strategies to keep their land safe from deer intrusions, ensuring the longevity and productivity of their agricultural and horticultural endeavours.

Understanding Deer Behaviour & Fencing Requirements

Understanding deer behaviour is essential when planning and installing deer fencing. Deer are intelligent and adaptive creatures with a range of behaviours that can affect the success of your fencing efforts. Different species have unique characteristics, and their behaviour can vary significantly based on their environment and the availability of food.

Importance of Understanding Deer Behaviour

Deer are highly motivated by food sources, shelter, and mating opportunities. They are known to travel great distances to find these resources, and when they encounter a barrier, they will often test its integrity. If they find a weak spot or a way to jump over or crawl under the fence, they will exploit it. Therefore, understanding their behaviour and movement patterns can help in designing a more effective fencing solution.

Why Optimal Deer Fence Height Matters

Choosing the right height for your deer fence is crucial. A fence that is too low will be easily jumped over by deer, rendering it ineffective. On the other hand, a fence that is unnecessarily high can be more expensive and challenging to install and maintain. The optimal height will vary depending on the species of deer, their jumping capabilities, and the specific conditions of your property.

Read More: What Animals Climb Fences? UK Fencing Guide

Overview of Common Deer Species in the UK

Different deer species exhibit varying jumping abilities and behaviours. Here’s a closer look at the most common species found in the UK:

• Roe Deer: Roe deer are small and agile, capable of jumping fences up to 1.8 metres high. They are often found in woodland areas and can cause significant damage to young trees and crops.
• Fallow Deer: These deer are slightly larger and more robust. They can jump fences around 2 metres high. Fallow deer are commonly found in parks and private estates, where they can damage ornamental plants and agricultural crops.
• Sika Deer: Known for their impressive jumping capabilities, sika deer require fencing up to 2.5 metres high. They are commonly found in specific regions, particularly in Scotland, and can cause considerable damage to forestry and agricultural areas.
• Chinese Water Deer: These deer are less common in the UK and are not strong jumpers. They can be deterred with fences as low as 1.2 metres. Chinese water deer are more likely to squeeze through gaps than jump over fences.
• Red Deer: The largest species of deer in the UK, red deer need substantial barriers around 2.4 metres high to prevent entry. They are widespread across rural and semi-rural areas and can cause significant damage to crops and forestry.

Impact of Deer on Properties Without Proper Fencing

Without proper deer fencing, properties are at risk of severe damage. Deer can devastate vegetable gardens, agricultural crops, and young trees. They can strip bark from trees, trample plants, and consume vast amounts of foliage, leading to economic losses for farmers and gardeners. Additionally, deer can spread diseases and parasites that affect livestock and other wildlife.

Adapting to Deer Behaviour

Deer are creatures of habit and will often use the same trails and entry points to access food sources. Installing fencing along these paths can be particularly effective. However, deer are also highly adaptable and will find new ways to access food if their usual routes are blocked. Regularly monitoring deer activity and adjusting your fencing strategy accordingly can help maintain the effectiveness of your deer control measures.

Factors Affecting Optimal Deer Fence Heights

Local Species

Understanding the local deer species is critical for determining the necessary fence height. Each species has different capabilities and behaviours. For example, roe deer, which are common in many parts of the UK, generally require a fence height of 1.8 metres. However, if your area is home to sika deer, you would need to consider a fence up to 2.5 metres high. Assessing the prevalent species in your region allows for tailored fence height solutions, enhancing effectiveness and reducing the likelihood of deer breaches.

Terrain Considerations

Installing deer fences on varied terrain presents specific challenges. Rocky ground and uneven surfaces can complicate fence installation, requiring robust techniques to ensure stability. Reinforcing fence posts with concrete and using flexible wire mesh can help maintain fence integrity on difficult terrain. On sloped areas, the fence height must be adjusted to account for the incline. For instance, a slope can give deer an advantage, making it easier for them to jump over lower sections of the fence. To prevent this, increase the height of the fence on the lower side of the slope and ensure that the entire perimeter is uniformly secured.

TORNADO T13/190/15 Deer Fencing

Proximity to Food Sources

Deer are highly motivated by accessible food sources. If your property is near lush gardens, agricultural fields, or natural food supplies, higher fences are often necessary. Double fencing, where two fences are installed a few feet apart, can be particularly effective in high-risk areas, creating a barrier that is difficult for deer to cross. Electric fencing can also be an effective supplementary measure. By incorporating a mild electric shock, it serves as a deterrent without harming the deer. Additionally, maintaining clear zones around the fence by removing potential food sources can reduce deer pressure.

Deer Population Density

High deer population density in an area increases the likelihood of deer attempting to breach fences. In such regions, taller fences and additional deterrents like electric components are essential. Conversely, in areas with lower deer populations, a standard fence height may suffice. Regularly monitoring deer populations and their movements can help adjust fence height and strength accordingly. Implementing wildlife cameras and tracking local reports can provide valuable data for making informed decisions about fence adjustments.

Optimal Deer Fencing Installation Tips and Techniques

Proper installation of deer fencing is a multi-step process that requires careful planning and execution. For comprehensive advice, visit our Deer Fencing Ideas Blog.

• Assess Your Property: Begin by evaluating your property to determine the most appropriate fence height and type based on local deer species, terrain, and specific needs.
• Budgeting: Plan for the costs of materials and labour. Quality materials like durable wire mesh and sturdy posts are investments that ensure the fence’s longevity.
• Preparation: Gather necessary tools and materials, including fence posts, wire mesh, concrete for reinforcement, and electric fence components if applicable.
• Installation Process: Start by setting the fence posts firmly in the ground, spaced appropriately to maintain fence integrity. Attach the wire mesh securely, ensuring there are no gaps through which deer can squeeze. Consider adding angle brackets to the tops of fences which makes it even harder for deer to jump a fence. If using electric components, follow safety guidelines to install them correctly. For a detailed installation guide, refer to our Deer Fencing Installation Guide.
• Regular Checks and Repairs: Conduct regular inspections to identify and repair any damage promptly. Look for signs of wear, rust, or breaches and address them immediately to maintain fence effectiveness.
• Seasonal Adjustments: Adjust your fence configuration to account for seasonal changes in deer behaviour and movement. For instance, during mating season, deer are more active and may attempt to breach fences more frequently.

Looking for Professional and Effective Deer Fencing Solutions?

Proper deer fence height is crucial for protecting your property from deer damage. By considering local species, terrain challenges, and proximity to food sources, you can implement a fencing strategy that effectively deters deer. Regular maintenance and seasonal adjustments are key to ensuring long-term fence effectiveness.

In the UK, County Fencing is a prominent supplier of specialised fencing, fencing equipment, and fencing installation services. We will be pleased to offer advice on any fencing needs you may have, with an emphasis on specialised applications and the best fencing equipment available.

We can advise on the application of deer fencing, fox fencing, badger fencing and more.

CONTACT US TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE OR MAKE USE OF OUR FREE PERIMETER CALCULATOR!

Deer Fence Height: Your Questions Answered