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Can Foxes Jump Fences? Tips to Keep Away Foxes from Fences

ByLisa Stevens

Are you tired of those sneaky foxes trying to outsmart your fences and getting into places they shouldn’t be? 

Foxes are known for their cunning nature and agility, which makes them excellent jumpers. This means that keeping them away from your garden or livestock can be a real challenge. But don’t worry, with the right knowledge and some clever strategies, you can keep those foxes at bay. 

In this blog post, we’ll explore the world of foxes and fences, and provide you with some top tips to keep these furry intruders away.

What Kind of Fence Deters Foxes?

When it comes to keeping foxes out, not all fences are created equal. Foxes are agile creatures that can jump, climb, and even dig under barriers. 

So, what’s the best type of fence to keep them out? A solid, high fence without gaps is a great start. Materials like wood or solid metal sheets can make it harder for foxes to get a grip and climb over.

 Additionally, fences that extend underground can deter digging, and angled tops or rollers can prevent them from getting a good jump.

How High Should a Fence Be to Keep Foxes Away?

You might be wondering just how high your fence needs to be to keep a determined fox from jumping over. 

Generally, a fence should be at least 6 feet tall to prevent foxes from jumping over. But height isn’t the only factor; the top of the fence should be angled outward or equipped with rollers to make it more difficult for foxes to get over. 

Remember, foxes are resourceful and can even use nearby objects to give them a boost, so keep the area around your fence clear of anything they might use as a stepping stone.

What is a Fox Afraid of?

Foxes, like many animals, have natural fears that can be used to your advantage. They are generally wary of humans and larger predators. 

Loud noises, sudden movements, and unfamiliar scents can all make a fox think twice about entering your space. You can use this to your advantage by installing motion-activated lights or sprinklers, or even using radios to simulate human presence. 

Some people swear by using the scent of human hair or urine to keep foxes away, as it suggests to the fox that a human is nearby.

Are Foxes Scared of Dogs?

In the wild, foxes tend to avoid dogs due to their larger size and potential to be a predator. In a domestic setting, the presence of a dog can deter foxes, especially if the dog is active and has a strong presence in the yard. 

However, this isn’t a foolproof method as some bolder foxes might not be as easily intimidated, and smaller or more passive dogs might not be as effective at deterring them.

What Smells Do Foxes Hate?

Foxes have a strong sense of smell, which you can use to your advantage. They dislike many of the same scents that deter other pests, such as chili pepper, garlic, and commercial animal repellent sprays. 

Sprinkling these around the perimeter of your fence or garden can help keep foxes at a distance. Remember, you’ll need to reapply these after rain or over time as the scent fades.

Tips to Keep Away Foxes from Fences

  • Secure Your Garbage: Foxes are often attracted to yards because of the easy availability of food. Make sure your garbage cans are securely closed and compost bins are well-maintained to not provide an easy meal for these critters.
  • Remove Attractants: Besides food, things like water sources, shelter, or even small pets can attract foxes. Keep pet food indoors, secure poultry or rabbits, and eliminate any cozy hiding spots where a fox might want to den.
  • Install Motion-Activated Devices: As mentioned earlier, foxes are wary of sudden movements and noises. Motion-activated lights or sprinklers can startle and deter a fox from entering your property.
  • Regularly Check and Maintain Fences: A small gap or a weak spot is all a fox needs to get through. Regularly inspect your fence for any signs of damage or digging and repair it promptly.
  • Use Natural Deterrents: Planting things like prickly bushes along the fence line can make it less appealing for a fox to try and cross. Similarly, maintaining a clear zone around the fence can eliminate cover and make the fox feel too exposed to attempt crossing.
  • Get Creative with Scare Tactics: Old CDs hung from strings, wind chimes, or even scarecrows can sometimes be enough to make a fox think twice, as they reflect light and create unpredictable movements.

Remember, the key to keeping foxes away is to make your yard less attractive and more daunting to them. Foxes are opportunistic and will often go for the easiest meal they can find. By making it clear that your yard isn’t an easy target, you can encourage them to move on to other areas.

conclusion

In conclusion, while foxes are undoubtedly clever and agile creatures, with the right strategies, you can keep your fences fox-free and your property safe. By understanding what deters them, how they behave, and taking proactive measures, you can outsmart the fox and enjoy a peaceful, intruder-free environment. So, don’t let those foxes outfox you—take action today and keep those cunning creatures at bay!

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