Coyotes, once primarily associated with wild, open spaces, are increasingly common residents in suburban and urban environments. Their adaptability allows them to thrive alongside human populations, utilizing available resources. This growing presence leads many homeowners to question how coyotes navigate barriers like fences.
Understanding Coyote Climbing Behavior
Yes, coyotes can climb fences and other structures. They are agile animals with powerful hind legs, allowing them to jump significant heights. Coyotes can jump vertically up to 8 feet from a standstill, and with a running start, they can clear even higher barriers. Their climbing ability is enhanced by sharp claws, which provide grip on rough surfaces like chain-link fences or trees.
Coyotes employ a two-phase jumping technique to overcome obstacles. They first jump and grab the top of a fence with their front paws, then use their back legs to propel themselves further, bringing all four paws onto the fence top before dropping down. This athleticism allows them to scale fences. They can even climb trees with low branches or rough bark, though they are not as adept as animals like cats or raccoons.
Their motivation for climbing stems from seeking food, escaping threats, or exploring new territories. Coyotes are opportunistic predators and scavengers, constantly searching for available food sources. These often include small mammals, birds, pet food, or garbage in residential areas.
Fence Design and Coyote Access
The design and material of a fence significantly influence its effectiveness against coyotes. A fence needs to address climbing, jumping, digging, and squeezing. Coyote-proof fences are typically at least 6 to 8 feet tall to prevent jumping. However, height alone is often insufficient due to their climbing abilities.
Different fence materials offer varying resistance. Chain-link fences, while sturdy, can be scaled by coyotes who use the mesh as footholds, potentially climbing 14 to 16 feet high. Wooden privacy fences can be effective if tall and have smooth, solid panels without horizontal rails that could serve as climbing aids. Smooth materials like vinyl, ornamental aluminum, or steel fences are more difficult to climb as they offer little grip. For these, narrow picket spacing is important to prevent coyotes from squeezing through.
Beyond climbing and jumping, coyotes are skilled diggers. They can dig under fences, creating passages to access desired areas. To counter this, fences should extend at least 12 to 18 inches underground, with an L-shaped mesh barrier or wire apron buried along the base, extending outward, to further deter digging. Coyotes can also squeeze through small gaps, as little as 3 to 4 inches, due to their flexible rib cages. Therefore, tight mesh sizes, such as 2×4 inch wire mesh or smaller, are recommended to prevent them from slipping through.
Effective Deterrents for Fences
To effectively deter coyotes from breaching fences, a multi-pronged approach is reliable. Modifications to existing fences can improve their security. Coyote rollers are cylindrical aluminum tubes installed along the top of a fence. When a coyote attempts to grab the top to pull itself over, the rollers spin freely, preventing it from getting a grip and scaling the barrier. These rollers are effective on various fence types, including wood, wrought iron, vinyl, and chain link, and work best on fences at least six feet tall.
To prevent coyotes from digging under fences, an L-footer or mesh apron is highly recommended. This involves burying wire mesh, often 12 to 18 inches deep, and extending it horizontally outward from the fence base. This creates a barrier that coyotes encounter when they attempt to dig, discouraging them from continuing. For fences with gaps, ensuring the mesh size is 2×4 inches or smaller can prevent coyotes from squeezing through.
Beyond physical modifications, removing attractants from yards is an important preventative measure. Coyotes are opportunistic and drawn to easy food sources. This includes securing trash cans with tight-fitting, animal-proof lids, not leaving pet food or water bowls outside, and promptly picking up fallen fruit from trees. Maintaining vegetation and trimming dense bushes or tall grass can also reduce hiding spots that coyotes might use. Other deterrents, such as motion-activated lights or sprinklers, can startle coyotes and make them uncomfortable, discouraging their presence.