There are multiple types of DIY coyote fence you can install yourself for a reasonable cost. These include wiremesh with an L-footer, PVC or vinyl panels, and electric fencing.
As a homeowner, there’s nothing as unsettling as peering outside your window only to see a coyote rummaging through your backyard. These animals are inherently resourceful and clever creatures making it challenging to keep them off your property.
No matter how diligently you may try to keep them off your property, they always seem to find a way back. Fencing is one of the most effective way to keep coyotes out and your pets in. It’s important to note that coyotes can jump high and dig.
Unfortunately, coyotes can be a nuisance in rural and suburban areas preying on your pets such as small dogs, livestock, bird feeders, etc. This guide will look at the possible DIY coyote fence ideas and costs.
Read on!
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Do fences keep coyotes out?
Fencing is indeed a proven way to keep coyotes out and your pets in . It’s important to note that coyotes can jump high and dig. Therefore, fencing should be buried several inches into the ground and at least six feet tall.
Your solution to coyote infestation will depend on your situation and location. Below are some ideas for keeping your livestock on your property and coyotes out:
Tall fencing
As previously mentioned, coyotes can jump relatively high. Therefore, when thinking about coyote-deterrent fencing, think of building it tall.
The fence ought to be a minimum of four feet high. But this won’t be sufficient on its own, and you might consider combining it with another coyote repellent.
Aim to build a 6 foot fence to prevent the coyote from jumping over. It’s smart to consult with your building department or HOA as some associations consider six feet too tall.
However, if you live in a rural area and are protecting your livestock, you should strongly construct an 8 foot fence.
Wire mesh fencing
Wire mesh fencing uses heavy-grade steel wires to create a high-strength mesh. They’re an ideal alternative to high-tensile wire fencing as they’re more robust, and animals will have to work their way between the wires.
When deterring coyotes, go for a gauge that will deter even the most determined coyote. Besides, ensure the weave is not wide enough to give coyotes a foothold and avoid topping it with a wooden rail.
PVC privacy fencing
PVC fencing is a new concept that comes in similar styles as wooden fences, such as privacy panels. PVC privacy fencing is ideal for residential purposes and is a better material than wood.
First, coyotes won’t try to chew through it as it’s unpleasant. Second, they will struggle to climb over, if at all, due to its smooth surface.
It’s also an ideal option as coyotes won’t be able to see the animals and pets you have in your yard. Most style and eight-feet tall, which adds to the security.
Wire mesh L-footer
Coyotes will attempt to burrow under the fence to get in. To avoid this, you can extend a wire mesh at least six feet below the ground.
For other fencing types, you can install a wire mesh L-footer with the same heavy-duty mesh. They go a foot below the ground and extend out at a ninety-degree angle, an extra deterrent to coyotes digging under the fence.
Electric fencing
An electric fence deters coyotes with the electrically charged wires that scare them away.
However, an electric fence is usually more expensive than traditional coyote fencing and can be more challenging to install and maintain. As the commodity prices have gone up, coyote electric fence installation ranges from $16.84 and $21.59 per linear foot in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
They are a great deterrent as they keep coyotes out if installed correctly. It can, however, be a futile method depending on how high coyotes can jump, their digging and climbing abilities, and their fur insulation.
Can coyotes jump over fences?
Yes, coyotes can jump relatively high. Therefore, when thinking about coyote-deterrent fencing, think of building it tall. Experts recommend the fence be at least 6 to eight feet high to deter coyotes effectively.
What fence is best for coyotes?
Most homeowners prefer using wire mesh fencing to deter coyotes. This fencing works better since it is stronger, and most animals cannot work their way between the wires.
Wire mesh fencing is perfect for larger properties, particularly in rural areas. Wire-mesh fencing is also ideal as it won’t hurt the animals, even in suburban areas.
How tall should a coyote fence be?
Experts recommend the fence be at least six to eight feet high to deter coyotes effectively. This is because coyotes are good climbers and can jump pretty high.
Will a hot wire fence keep coyotes out?
Hotwire fencing has proven to be a permanent solution to deter predators such as coyotes from your property. However, an electric fence is usually more expensive than traditional coyote fencing and can be more challenging to install and maintain.
They are a great deterrent as they keep coyotes out if installed correctly. It can, however, be a futile method depending on how high coyotes can jump, their digging and climbing abilities, and their fur insulating abilities.
How do you build a coyote fence?
Coyotes are wild animals, but they’ve adapted to change and encroached on the human habitat. Even in an urban area, it’s no surprise to see a coyote.
Although these animals can be destructive and pose threats, it’s advisable to construct a coyote-proof fence instead of killing them. Constructing a coyote fence system is not as hard as you might think.
You can actually build it yourself by following these simple steps:
- Drive wooden or metal posts in the ground, secured with a small amount of concrete if available.
- Hang strong barbed wire long enough so coyotes can’t jump over it.
- Install an electric fence to deter coyotes and prevent them from tunneling beneath it
Ultimately, use a coyote roller to prevent them from grasping hold of your fence. You can also add extra coyote-proofing measures such as:
- store away pet food
- secure your bird feeder
- secure your garage
- use air horns
- use wolf urine
- installing motion-activated lights