When it comes to protecting residential properties from unwanted wildlife, particularly snakes, fencing is a popular solution. However, the debate surrounding the safety of different types of fencing, especially residential snake fencing versus wire fencing in the broader context of wildlife impact, is increasingly important.
Residential Snake Fencing
Snake fencing is a solution designed specifically to keep snakes out of yards and homes. Typically, this fencing consists of fine mesh that is installed close to the ground and around the perimeter of a property, preventing snakes from squeezing through gaps or climbing over. In Tucson and other regions where venomous snakes are prevalent, such fences provide peace of mind for homeowners, particularly those with pets or children.
The primary safety advantage of snake fencing is its effectiveness at addressing a specific problem: keeping dangerous snakes away from homes. Unlike other types of fencing, the small mesh size used in snake fencing makes it impossible for most snakes, including species like rattlesnakes, to enter a yard. Since these fences are designed to contain or exclude only a targeted group of animals, they are generally seen as beneficial from a residential safety perspective.
Wire Fencing Controversy
On the other hand, wire fencing, while often used for general boundary control, is at the center of a larger debate about its environmental and wildlife impacts. As highlighted in the article from the Sonoran Desert’s Desert Fence Busters project, wire fences, such as barbed wire or woven wire fencing, can be problematic for wildlife. These fences are commonly used for livestock control or property demarcation but create significant hazards for wildlife such as deer, coyotes, and other animals. They can become entangled in these fences or be forced to navigate around them, which disrupts natural migratory patterns and can cause injuries or fatalities.
This controversy extends to the broader implications of fencing in desert landscapes. While residential snake fencing is a targeted, more humane solution for specific hazards, wire fencing presents a more complex challenge. The issue is not simply about safety for humans but also about the safety and mobility of native wildlife, which plays an essential role in maintaining ecological balance.
Conclusion
Both snake fencing and wire fencing serve different purposes, and their safety must be evaluated based on the context in which they are used. Snake fencing enhances human safety by keeping potentially dangerous animals out, while wire fencing poses significant risks to wildlife, raising concerns about ethical and environmental impacts. Balancing safety for humans and wildlife is key to making informed fencing decisions.
