What is Wildlife-Friendly Fencing?

by Harvey Croft

26th November 24

Fencing has long been used to protect properties, delineate boundaries, and manage livestock. However, traditional fencing methods often create unintended hazards for local wildlife. As awareness of environmental preservation grows, wildlife-friendly fencing is gaining traction among landowners and conservationists alike.

Wildlife-friendly fencing prioritises the safety of both property and the creatures that inhabit nearby ecosystems. Unlike barbed wire fencing, which can cause severe injuries or even cruel death to animals, these fences are designed to coexist harmoniously with nature. In this blog, we’ll explore what makes a fence wildlife friendly, the challenges animals face with traditional fencing, and practical solutions for a safer, more sustainable landscape.

What is Wildlife-Friendly Fencing?

Wildlife-friendly fencing refers to barriers designed to protect property while minimising harm to local animals and ecosystems. Unlike standard fencing options, these fences are carefully constructed to ensure wildlife can safely navigate their environment without getting caught, trapped, or injured.

Key features include:

• Adjustable top strands: Allow larger animals, such as deer, to pass through or over the fence without harm.
• Living fences: Incorporate plants, trees, and shrubs to create natural barriers that also provide shelter and habitat.
• Smooth, visible materials: Reduce the risk of entangled animals while ensuring fences blend seamlessly into the landscape.

By combining thoughtful design with environmentally safe materials, wildlife-friendly fences protect animals while maintaining the integrity of human spaces.

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The Challenges Wildlife Faces with Traditional Fencing

Conventional fences, like barbed wire fencing, create numerous obstacles for wildlife. Animals tend to navigate instinctively, often unaware of barriers until it’s too late.

Specific Challenges Include:

• Nocturnal animals navigating in darkness may collide with fences, leading to injuries.
• Larger animals, such as deer, risk injury or even death attempting to jump over rigid fences.
• Barbed wire hazards: Birds, small mammals such as badgers, and even livestock often become entangled in barbed wire, resulting in cuts, broken limbs, or entrapment.
• Windy conditions can cause fences to sway, further complicating visibility for wildlife.

Traditional fencing interrupts animal migration patterns, disrupts habitats, and poses risks that are entirely preventable with wildlife-friendly designs.

Find Out More: A Guide To The Types of Fencing Grants in the UK

Key Benefits of Wildlife-Friendly Fencing

Switching to wildlife-friendly fencing offers numerous advantages for both humans and animals:

1. Animal Safety:
   Wildlife-friendly fences reduce incidents of entangled animals and prevent unnecessary harm.
2. Environmental Impact:
   These fences minimise habitat disruption and maintain natural animal migration routes.
3. Promotes Biodiversity:
   By considering the needs of multiple species, wildlife-friendly fencing supports healthier ecosystems.
4. Aesthetic Appeal:
   Options like living fences blend into the natural landscape, offering both beauty and functionality.

Types of Wildlife-Friendly Fencing

When choosing wildlife-friendly fencing, it’s essential to match the solution to your landscape and local wildlife needs. Each type has distinct advantages, often determined by the materials used. Selecting the right materials can make a significant difference in safety, durability, and environmental impact.

1. Living Fences

A living fence uses trees, shrubs, and plants to form a natural barrier. This type of fencing not only creates a boundary but also doubles as a habitat, offering shelter, food, and nesting areas for wildlife.

Materials Used:

• Native plant species: These integrate seamlessly into the environment, promoting biodiversity.
• Hardy shrubs and hedges: Examples include hawthorn, privet, and blackthorn, which are resilient and require minimal upkeep.
• Trees: Larger trees, like oak or birch, can act as corner posts or add height to the fence.

2. Wooden Fences

Wooden fences are a classic option, particularly effective when modified for wildlife. By incorporating gaps or raised bottom rails, these fences allow small animals like hedgehogs and rabbits to pass through safely.

Materials Used:

• Sustainably sourced timber: Use treated or weather-resistant wood, such as cedar or redwood, to ensure durability without excessive maintenance.
• Non-toxic finishes: Ensure the wood is treated with eco-friendly stains or paints to avoid harming the environment.

3. Wire and Post Fencing

This lightweight and flexible option is popular in areas where larger animals like deer are common. Adjusted top strands allow these animals to pass without getting tangled, while the lower wires can be spaced to enable smaller animals to navigate freely.

Materials Used:

• Galvanised steel wires: Durable and resistant to rust, making them suitable for various weather conditions.
• Wood or metal posts: These provide sturdy support, with wooden posts offering a natural aesthetic.
• Plastic-coated wires: Added coating ensures visibility and reduces the risk of cuts or injuries.

4. Electric Fencing with Deterrent Design

Electric fences can effectively manage livestock while protecting wildlife when designed responsibly. Low-voltage options act as a deterrent rather than causing harm.

Materials Used:

• Insulated electric wires: Designed to carry a safe voltage, ensuring minimal risk to animals.
• Non-conductive posts: Fibreglass or composite materials that support the fence structure without conducting electricity.

Find Out More: Electric vs Non-Electric Animal Fence: Which is Best?

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Key Considerations for Designing and Installing Wildlife-Friendly Fencing

To ensure your fencing meets wildlife-friendly standards, consider these best practices:

• Spacing and Height: Opt for fencing that accommodates ground-level movement and allows larger animals to jump without injury.
• Materials: Use environmentally friendly materials like smooth wires and natural components such as plants and trees.
• Visibility: Add markers or reflective elements to make fences visible to nocturnal animals.
• Top Strand Adjustments: Ensure the top strand is high enough to prevent entanglement but low enough for animals to safely pass.
• Maintenance: Regularly inspect your fence to address any damage that may pose a risk to wildlife.

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How to Maintain a Wildlife-Friendly Fence Over Time

The benefits of wildlife-friendly fencing are only as good as the upkeep they receive. Proper maintenance ensures long-term safety for animals and the environment.

1. Regular Inspections:
   Check for sagging wires, gaps, or damage caused by weather or wildlife.
2. Prompt Repairs:
   Address issues like loosened barbed wire or damaged top strands immediately.
3. Seasonal Adjustments:
   Adapt your fencing to accommodate seasonal behaviours, such as heightened animal activity during spring migrations.
4. Landscaping Support:
   Enhance the surrounding area with shelter and pathways to help animals navigate safely.

Read More: 5 Deer Fencing Ideas to Protect and Preserve Land

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Looking for Wildlife-Friendly Fencing Options?

Investing in wildlife-friendly fencing is a step toward creating harmony between humans and nature. Not only does it safeguard local ecosystems, but it also ensures that your property remains functional, safe, and visually appealing.

Even small actions, like adjusting a top strand or replacing barbed wire, can significantly reduce the risks faced by animals. Ready to make the change? Explore County Fencing’s wildlife-friendly solutions and take the first step toward responsible land management.

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!

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