Protecting gardens and landscapes from rabbits requires constructing an effective physical barrier. A successful rabbit fence must account for the animal’s ability to jump over the barrier and its strong instinct to burrow beneath it. Designing a defense that addresses both vertical reach and subterranean access is necessary for successful, long-term exclusion.
Critical Requirements for Rabbit Fencing
A fence intended to exclude rabbits must meet specific physical standards. The mesh size is the most important factor, as it must be small enough to block even juvenile rabbits. A maximum opening size of one inch or less is recommended, as young rabbits can easily squeeze through larger gaps.
The fence must also be tall enough to deter adult rabbits from jumping over, requiring a height of at least 24 to 36 inches (two to three feet) above the ground. Taller fences, closer to three feet, may be necessary for larger species like Jackrabbits. The wire material must possess a sufficient gauge, or thickness, to resist damage from chewing. A minimum of 18-gauge wire, and preferably 16-gauge, ensures the fence remains intact.
Comparing Fencing Materials
The material chosen for a rabbit fence should be evaluated based on mesh size, strength, and overall cost. Hardware cloth is the superior material for rabbit exclusion due to its small, often square, mesh openings of 1/2-inch or 1/4-inch and its thicker wire gauge. While it is the most expensive option, its durability and small mesh size effectively block the smallest pests.
A welded wire fence is a more affordable alternative, provided the mesh openings are no larger than one inch. This material offers good strength and durability, but buyers must carefully check the mesh dimension, as many products feature openings too large for small rabbits. Chicken wire, or poultry netting, is the least effective option. Its thin, flexible wire and large hexagonal openings often exceed the one-inch maximum, making it unsuitable for a rabbit-proof enclosure.
Installation Strategies to Stop Digging
The most common failure point of a rabbit fence is the base, where rabbits will attempt to burrow underneath to gain access. To counteract this natural digging behavior, the fence must be installed using the L-Footer Method, which creates a horizontal barrier underground. This technique involves digging a shallow trench and then burying the bottom section of the fence six to ten inches deep.
The buried portion is then bent outward, away from the protected area, at a 90-degree angle to form an “L” shape or “foot” that extends six to twelve inches horizontally. When a rabbit begins to dig along the vertical fence line, its burrowing attempt will quickly encounter this horizontal wire apron. This obstruction prevents the animal from tunneling further into the protected area. Securing the outward-facing lip with ground staples or burying it completely with soil ensures the barrier stays flush against the ground. The vertical portion of the fence must also be installed with the bottom edge resting directly on the soil surface to eliminate any small gaps before reaching the buried apron.