The increasing presence of coyotes in suburban and urban environments has led property owners to seek effective deterrents. Concerns about domestic pet safety and property intrusion often raise the question of whether a four-foot fence is sufficient. This article addresses the physical capabilities of coyotes and outlines targeted solutions for fortifying existing barriers.
The Vertical Leap of a Coyote
A coyote can definitively jump a four-foot fence, as this height is not a sufficient deterrent for a motivated animal. From a standing position, a coyote possesses the muscular power to achieve a vertical leap of approximately four to five feet, clearing a standard four-foot fence without a running start.
Coyotes can surpass this initial jump height through a climbing maneuver that utilizes the fence itself. This technique involves leaping, grabbing the top edge with the front paws, and then using the rear legs to propel the rest of the body upward. Using this method, coyotes can effectively scale barriers up to six to eight feet high. On chain-link fences, which offer numerous footholds, their climbing ability is even more pronounced, allowing them to ascend heights of 14 to 16 feet.
Fence Modifications for Intrusion Prevention
Since typical fence height is inadequate, modifications must eliminate the coyote’s ability to gain grip at the top.
Coyote Rollers
One of the most effective top-of-fence solutions is the installation of coyote rollers. These devices consist of a 3-inch diameter ribbed tube, often made of aluminum or PVC, mounted onto a taut wire cable or brackets along the fence top. The roller is designed to spin with minimal pressure, denying the coyote the stable purchase needed to pull itself over the barrier.
Angled Overhangs
Another highly effective vertical modification is the angled overhang, sometimes referred to as a coyote apron or lean-in. This involves adding a fence extension that is bent outward from the property at a 45-degree to 90-degree angle. Experts recommend this overhang section be at least 16 inches wide to prevent the animal from reaching a stable point and successfully navigating the final ascent. For existing fences, height can also be increased using vertical mesh extensions, typically made from 16-gauge galvanized steel tubing and heavy-duty welded wire mesh.
Visual Barriers
The addition of a visual barrier can be a strong psychological deterrent. Solid privacy fences, such as those made from wood or steel board, are more effective than chain-link or wire mesh because they block the coyote’s line of sight to a potential target inside the yard. By removing the visual reward, the animal is less motivated to attempt the climb. Combining a visual barrier with a physical modification like a roller ensures both psychological and physical means of entry are blocked.
Alternative Entry Methods
A secured perimeter must account for the coyote’s ability to bypass a fence through means other than jumping or climbing.
Preventing Digging
Digging is a common method of entry, as coyotes are persistent and capable excavators. To prevent tunneling, a wire apron must be installed at the base of the fence. This apron should be heavy-gauge wire mesh buried at least 12 inches deep and bent outward at a 90-degree angle, extending 12 to 18 inches horizontally away from the fence line.
Securing Gaps and Gates
The fence structure must be protected against breaches. Any openings, gaps, or damaged sections are quickly exploited, especially by younger, smaller coyotes. Mesh openings should be kept to a maximum of two inches by four inches to prevent a coyote from squeezing through. Gates are a particular point of vulnerability and require the same extended mesh protection underneath to close the gap that often exists between the gate and the ground.
Eliminating Launching Aids
Coyotes are opportunistic and will utilize existing landscape features to aid their entry. Structures such as sheds, large woodpiles, or stacked debris near the fence line can serve as a natural launching platform, effectively reducing the necessary vertical jump height. Removing these aids and maintaining a clear perimeter space directly adjacent to the fence is necessary for comprehensive intrusion prevention.