Foxes are adaptable wildlife found in diverse environments. Understanding their movements is important for property protection.
Fox Jumping Capabilities
Foxes are agile creatures capable of impressive leaps. Most foxes can jump approximately 3 feet (about 1 meter) high. Red foxes, a common species, often clear fences up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) in height, with some individuals capable of vertical jumps approaching 7 feet (2 meters) from a stationary position.
Several factors influence a fox’s jumping prowess. Motivation, such as the pursuit of prey, escaping danger, or accessing food, impacts how high a fox might jump. A fox’s age, overall health, and physical condition influence its athletic ability. The type of obstacle, including its material and stability, affects a fox’s attempt to jump over it.
Other Ways Foxes Bypass Fences
Beyond jumping, foxes employ various other methods to bypass barriers, primarily through digging, climbing, and squeezing through small openings. Digging is a common method of entry for foxes. They can tunnel under fences.
Foxes are also adept climbers, scaling a variety of fence types. They can easily climb chain-link fences, which provide ample footholds, and have been observed ascending 6-foot fences. Stacked items or low-hanging branches near a fence can serve as additional aids for climbing.
Their flexible bodies allow them to squeeze through tight spaces. An adult fox can typically fit through a hole as small as 4 inches (10 cm) square. This ability is attributed to their flexible skeletal structure, particularly the absence of rigid collarbones, enabling them to compress their bodies.
Effective Fox Deterrence Strategies
Securing properties against foxes involves a multi-faceted approach, starting with strategic fence design. A fence intended to deter foxes should stand at least 6 feet (1.8 meters) tall. To prevent digging, the fence material should extend a minimum of 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 cm) underground.
An effective method to prevent digging is to install an L-shaped footer, where wire mesh is buried horizontally, extending outwards 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm) from the base of the fence. Additionally, an outward-sloping top or overhang on the fence, angled at about 45 degrees, can make it more difficult for foxes to climb over. Using sturdy materials like heavy-gauge wire mesh is also important, as standard chicken wire may not be sufficient.
Beyond physical barriers, removing attractants is important. Securing trash cans with tight-fitting lids, clearing fallen fruit from trees, and ensuring pet food is not left outdoors will reduce the incentive for foxes to visit. For those with small livestock, enclosures like chicken coops should be constructed with strong materials and have openings smaller than 4 inches (10 cm) to prevent entry.
Other deterrents can complement physical barriers. Motion-activated lights or sounds can startle foxes, though these may become less effective over time as foxes habituate to them. Scent-based repellents, such as chili pepper, garlic, or citrus peels, can also be applied around property perimeters.