Rabbits can be very problematic when it comes to gardens and landscaping. Their voracious appetites and ability to fit through small spaces make containing them a challenge for many homeowners. Choosing the right kind of fencing is crucial to effectively keeping rabbits out of your yard or garden. In this article, we will explore the key considerations when selecting an effective rabbit-proof fence, provide an overview of the most common fencing options, and make recommendations for the best types of fences for excluding rabbits.
Page Contents
- 1 Key Factors for Rabbit Fencing
- 2 Common Fencing Options
- 3 Best Fences to Keep Rabbits Out
- 4 Tips for Rabbit-Proofing Your Fence
- 5 Conclusion
- 6 FAQ
- 6.1 What is the cheapest way to rabbit proof a fence?
- 6.2 What can I use to fill gaps under a fence?
- 6.3 How do I stop rabbits digging under my fence? Bury the bottom of the fence 6-12 inches underground to deter digging. Hardware cloth makes an effective underground barrier. Clearing vegetation around the fence also removes cover for rabbit burrowing. Packed gravel under fences creates an uncomfortable digging surface. An L-shaped wire mesh footing stops rabbits from burrowing under. What height fence is best to keep rabbits out? For optimal rabbit control, a fence height of 4-5 feet is recommended. Rabbits can jump up to 3 feet, so a taller fence prevents them from bounding over. Fences shorter than 3 feet will likely allow rabbits to enter from above. Maximum protection is provided by fences 4 feet and higher. How do I join two sections of wire fencing? Use wire ties, metal snips, and gloves to join two sections of wire fencing. Cut the horizontal wires midway between posts on both panels. Bend back the loose cut ends. Align the two panels and wrap tie wire tightly around the joined horizontal wires. Twist ties firmly with pliers to secure the fence. Finally, trim any sharp wire ends. Additional Rabbit Fencing Resources Here are some additional resources for rabbit control fencing: Books
- 6.4 Online Resources
- 6.5 Products
Key Factors for Rabbit Fencing
When evaluating fencing to keep rabbits out, there are several important factors to consider:
Hole Size
Rabbits can squeeze into very small spaces. Adult cottontail rabbits can fit through holes as small as 2 inches, while juvenile rabbits can get through gaps less than 1 inch wide. To be effective, rabbit fencing needs openings smaller than what rabbits are capable of passing through. For complete protection, a hole size of 1/2 inch or less is ideal.
Fence Height
Rabbits are also capable jumpers. To prevent them from bounding over your fence, an adequate height is required. A minimum of 2-3 feet is recommended, but taller 4-5 feet fences provide better rabbit control.
Fence Material Strength
Rabbits will gnaw and dig, so fencing needs to be made of strong materials that can withstand rabbit damage. Vinyl, wood, and wire fencing tend to hold up better than products like plastic mesh.
Dig Barrier
In addition to climbing and squeezing through holes, rabbits also dig. Extending your fence 6-12 inches underground or installing an L-shaped wire mesh dig barrier can help deter rabbits from burrowing under your fence.
Predator Protection
While the main goal is keeping rabbits out, you also need to prevent predators like coyotes and foxes from digging under your fence. A dig barrier will help stop these animals too.
Common Fencing Options
Now that we’ve covered key considerations for effective rabbit control, let’s discuss some of the most common fencing choices:
Wire Mesh Fencing
– Galvanized wire mesh fencing consists of welded wire in a grid pattern.
– Hole size can be 1/2 inch or smaller to block access.
– Available in various heights from 2 feet to 6 feet tall.
– Durable and resistant to chewing/digging.
– Needs sturdy wood or metal posts for support.
– Can attach to existing walls or be used as freestanding panels.
Chicken Wire
– Made from thin galvanized steel wire in 1 inch hexagonal holes.
– Primarily used for confinement of chickens vs. excluding rabbits.
– Rabbits can squeeze through 1 inch gaps and chew through the thin wire.
– Must be buried underground to prevent digging underneath.
– Very inexpensive fencing but not very effective for rabbits.
Vinyl-Coated Wire Fencing
– Similar to wire mesh fencing but coated in vinyl for added durability.
– Vinyl coating prevents rust and camouflages the fence.
– Added chewing resistance compared to galvanized wire.
– Available in various mesh hole sizes under 1 inch.
– More expensive than plain wire mesh.
Wood Fencing
– Constructed from weather-resistant wood like cedar.
– Can use wide boards spaced 1/2 inch apart or vertical pickets.
– Durable and decorative option for yards and gardens.
– 6 feet tall recommended for best rabbit control.
– Requires sturdy wood frame and concrete footer.
– Higher cost than wire fencing.
Vinyl Fencing
– Made from PVC resin to look like wood fence.
– Never needs painting and won’t rot or warp.
– Foamed vinyl is thick and rigid for chewing resistance.
– Expensive installed cost but very low maintenance.
– Rabbit-proof with pickets spaced 1/2 inch apart.
– Heights up to 6 feet available.
Chain Link Fencing
– Interconnected rows of metal wire loops.
– Galvanized or vinyl-coated steel options.
– Available in 2, 3, and 6 feet heights.
– Hole size is 1 1/4 to 2 1/4 inches.
– Low cost and very durable fencing.
– Rabbit-proof with additional 1/2″ mesh screening.
Electric Fencing
– Electrified wire or mesh carrying a non-lethal pulse.
– Can be installed on posts or attached to existing fences.
– Constant pulse deters rabbit contact with the fence.
– Solar or battery-powered energizer required.
– Very effective deterrent but higher complexity.
Best Fences to Keep Rabbits Out
Based on our analysis of different fencing materials and rabbit behavior, here are our top recommendations for the most effective rabbit-proof fences:
Wire Mesh Fencing
Our top overall choice is galvanized steel wire mesh fencing with 1/2 x 1/2 inch openings. This welded wire grid provides maximum strength while preventing access through holes. Burying the fence 6 inches underground blocks digging. A height of 4-5 feet foils jumping. Durable construction resists chewing damage too. This fence checks all the boxes for optimal rabbit exclusion.
Vinyl-Coated Wire Fencing
For enhanced durability and aesthetics, vinyl-coated wire mesh is also an excellent rabbit fence. The vinyl coating prevents rust while also camouflaging the fence. It adds extra protection against chewing damage from rabbit teeth. The small mesh holes keep rabbits contained. Overall, vinyl wire fence is a slightly more expensive but very reliable rabbit barrier.
Wood Fencing
For a natural look, wood fences made from durable cedar, redwood, or pressure-treated pine offer decorative rabbit control. These handsome fences are perfect for yards and gardens. Use a design with 1/2 inch gaps between vertical boards. Burying the fence 6 inches provides the needed rabbit dig barrier. Well-constructed wood fences 4-6 feet tall make beautiful and long-lasting rabbit barriers.
Electric Fencing
For the most cost-effective solution, electric fencing is tough to beat. A single or double electrified wire safely deters rabbit access at a fraction of the cost of physical barriers. Electric mesh fencing is also available. The pulsating charge frightens rabbits away without harming them. While very effective, electric fences require more expertise to install and maintain. They’re best suited for large rural properties.
Tips for Rabbit-Proofing Your Fence
Here are some additional tips to ensure your fence stops rabbit intrusions:
– Use the tightest mesh or board gap feasible, 1/2 inch or less is ideal. This eliminates entry gaps.
– Bury fence borders 6-12 inches underground to thwart digging. Hardware cloth makes a great dig barrier.
– Clear away vegetation around the fence perimeter so rabbits have no cover to hide or nibble.
– Ensure gates and access points are properly sealed with tight clearance gaps.
– Check for potential weak points like tree branches overhanging the fence and remove them.
– Examine your fence weekly and perform immediate repairs if holes or breaches are found.
– Consider adding an electric wire for added protection if you opt for a physical barrier fence.
Conclusion
Protecting your garden and landscape from rabbits requires strategic fencing. By understanding rabbit behavior and capabilities, you can select a fence designed to thwart their entry. For optimal exclusion power, galvanized or vinyl-coated wire mesh is our top choice. Wood and electric fences also make effective alternatives. No matter which fence you choose, minimizing hole size, adding height, and burying an underground barrier are key to success. With the right fence in place, you can keep rabbits out and enjoy your yard and garden free from rabbit destruction.
FAQ
What is the cheapest way to rabbit proof a fence?
The cheapest option for rabbit proofing a fence is adding electric wires. A single strand or double strand hot wire can be installed on top of an existing fence or on its own posts for very low cost. Electric mesh is also inexpensive. The electric pulse deters rabbit contact at a fraction of the price of physical barriers.
What can I use to fill gaps under a fence?
Use hardware cloth (wire mesh) to fill gaps under fences and create a digging barrier. Wire mesh can be bent into an L-shape and buried 6 inches deep. Concrete blocks, bricks, and gravel can also fill gaps under fences. Dirt and sod are not effective as rabbits will just dig back under.
How do I stop rabbits digging under my fence?
Bury the bottom of the fence 6-12 inches underground to deter digging. Hardware cloth makes an effective underground barrier. Clearing vegetation around the fence also removes cover for rabbit burrowing. Packed gravel under fences creates an uncomfortable digging surface. An L-shaped wire mesh footing stops rabbits from burrowing under.
What height fence is best to keep rabbits out?
For optimal rabbit control, a fence height of 4-5 feet is recommended. Rabbits can jump up to 3 feet, so a taller fence prevents them from bounding over. Fences shorter than 3 feet will likely allow rabbits to enter from above. Maximum protection is provided by fences 4 feet and higher.
How do I join two sections of wire fencing?
Use wire ties, metal snips, and gloves to join two sections of wire fencing. Cut the horizontal wires midway between posts on both panels. Bend back the loose cut ends. Align the two panels and wrap tie wire tightly around the joined horizontal wires. Twist ties firmly with pliers to secure the fence. Finally, trim any sharp wire ends.
Additional Rabbit Fencing Resources
Here are some additional resources for rabbit control fencing:
Books
- Backyard Rabbit Keeping by Ann Williams
- Rabbit Housing: Planning, Building, and Equipping Facilities for Humanely Raising Healthy Rabbits by Bob Bennett
- Storey’s Guide to Raising Rabbits by Bob Bennett
Online Resources
- Penn State Extension – Rabbit Control in the Home Garden
- The Old Farmer’s Almanac – Controlling Rabbits
- Havahart – How To Keep Rabbits Out Of Your Garden
Products
- Home Depot – Galvanized Wire Mesh Fencing
- Tractor Supply – Livestock Panels
- Lowes – Rabbit Fencing and Gates
By utilizing these resources and recommendations, you can successfully select and install rabbit-proof fencing to protect your garden and landscaping. Let us know if you have any other rabbit fencing questions!
For optimal rabbit control, a fence height of 4-5 feet is recommended. Rabbits can jump up to 3 feet, so a taller fence prevents them from bounding over. Fences shorter than 3 feet will likely allow rabbits to enter from above. Maximum protection is provided by fences 4 feet and higher.