The Importance of Snake Fencing
The inclusion of snake fencing in new developments should be a top priority, particularly in areas like Tucson, where the risk of encountering rattlesnakes and other wildlife is high. Snake fencing not only provides peace of mind to residents but also promotes the safety of both humans and animals. It reduces the likelihood of dangerous confrontations, allowing wildlife to remain in its natural habitat while protecting homeowners from unwanted visits.
In addition, snake fencing is a long-term investment that increases the safety and appeal of a community. Homebuyers moving to the area, especially those unfamiliar with the Sonoran Desert, are often unaware of the dangers posed by local wildlife. By incorporating snake fencing into development plans, builders can create a safer living environment and help preserve the delicate balance between human expansion and wildlife conservation.
The Absence of Snake Fencing
Despite the clear presence of wildlife, most newly constructed housing communities fail to include snake fencing as part of their development plans. This is a significant oversight, as snake fencing is a relatively simple and effective way to prevent snakes from entering residential areas. Snake fencing is designed to keep snakes from entering yards or homes by creating a barrier that they cannot climb or slither under. Without this protection, homeowners are left vulnerable to potential snake encounters, especially in neighborhoods that are built near natural desert landscapes.
Displacement of Wildlife
As Tucson continues to grow, new housing developments are sprouting up across the Sonoran Desert, bringing much-needed housing to the area. However, these developments are increasingly encroaching on the natural habitats of local wildlife. The impact of this expansion is significant, particularly for animals like snakes, lizards, birds, and other desert creatures that call this region home. While the construction of new homes may seem like a symbol of progress, it often comes at a cost to the local ecosystem.
Newly built communities are disrupting wildlife habitats, leading to the displacement of many animals. With more land cleared for development, the natural environment that once sustained various species is either destroyed or drastically altered. In particular, snakes, which play a crucial role in the desert ecosystem by controlling rodent populations, are often forced to seek refuge in human-inhabited areas.
This displacement can lead to unintended encounters between homeowners and wildlife, which can be dangerous. Rattlesnakes, common in the Sonoran Desert, are often found slithering into backyards, gardens, and even inside homes in search of food and shelter. These encounters are not only stressful for residents but can also result in harm to both humans and animals.
For more information on the importance of wildlife-friendly development practices, visit the Sonoran Institute.
By advocating for the inclusion of snake fencing in newly built communities, we can protect both residents and the local ecosystem, ensuring that Tucson’s growth is sustainable for all.
