Can Groundhogs Climb Chicken Wire. They are the scourge of gardeners everywhere: Woodchucks, aka groundh

They are the scourge of gardeners everywhere: Woodchucks, aka groundhogs, whistle pigs, or Marmota monax wreak havoc in gardens, trampling plants, digging complex burrows, and devouring vegetables. Thus, bury the fencing one foot deep and attach the wire to the posts, except for the top 12 inches. Learn seven ways to deter them from eating and digging up your garden. Reply reply A fence made of welded wire mesh or hardware cloth, buried at least 12 inches underground and standing at least 3 feet high, can deter groundhogs from burrowing underneath or climbing over. Material: Use heavy-gauge chicken wire, hardware cloth, or woven wire fencing with openings no larger than 2×2 inches. I’m not worried about digging under because I For materials, heavy-gauge galvanized wire or welded wire mesh with openings no larger than 2×3 inches, or 1×1 inch, is suitable as groundhogs can chew through weaker materials like chicken wire. May 28, 2025 · Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, can cause lots of damage in your garden. For instance, you can use a solar fence charger, choose different sorts of wire ranging from aluminum to polytape, and insulators if your fence post isn’t already insulated. The one inch wire (25 mm) has holes small enough that squirrels and other small rodents should not be able to fit themselves through. To avoid groundhogs climbing over it, bend that away from your garden. Apr 16, 2025 · Looking for advice on groundhog barrier for my vegetable raised beds. Finally, climbing chicken wire can offer crucial protection against predators. However, can cats climb chicken wire? This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to understanding feline agility and how it pertains to climbing chicken wire. Expert advice, FAQs, information and resources. 15. Angle the fence so that the part underground sticks out slightly toward the outside of the garden. Jan 11, 2026 · Height Matters: Groundhogs can climb, so aim for a fence that is at least 3-4 feet tall. The fence should also have a top portion angled outward to discourage climbing. But wondering can a groundhog squeeze through? I could use chicken wire, but it wont last as long, will rust pretty quickly where buried in the ground. What has worked for you? Build a small fence around your garden to keep groundhogs out The most effective way to keep groundhogs out of a garden is to erect a small fence around it, where possible. Adding a gate can provide easy access for humans while keeping groundhogs out. I think specific answers would really help people. A groundhog! So I put off setting one up for this year and started looking into ways to keep them out. See four safe and simple ways to keep groundhogs out of your garden space and stop them from destroying your vegetables and property! Dec 4, 2023 · The Humane Society of the United States advises using sturdy materials like chicken wire mesh, which is difficult for groundhogs to chew through or climb over. For materials, heavy-gauge galvanized wire or welded wire mesh with openings no larger than 2×3 inches, or 1×1 inch, is suitable as groundhogs can chew through weaker materials like chicken wire. Is it better to have a 4ft hardware cloth fence that is 1/2inch mesh, or a taller welded wire fence with 2x4 mesh? I cannot find taller hardware cloth and any welded wire with smaller holes is too expensive. This can allow you to choose which accessories to use. Fence Them Out: Groundhogs can jump short fences and tunnel under others, so it’s important to do this right. Best of luck with your project! Nov 22, 2021 · Can a groundhog climb a privacy fence? Even though woodchucks are good climbers, you can protect your gardens with fencing. Materials: posts are 6' t-bar with 2" ABS piping over top. Jun 18, 2025 · Likewise, fencing—such as chicken-wire fences—can provide a more permanent solution. They can climb trees to escape or bask in the sun, but they are not as skilled as squirrels in climbing or descending. Burrowing wildlife species such as skunks and groundhogs LOVE to make homes and dens under existing structures. Jul 27, 2022 · Fencing with chicken wire is generally an effective method of keeping woodchucks away from your edibles. To protect your garden from groundhog invasion, consider installing fences, using scare devices, or creating a separate “groundhog garden. If you've got a dog that will kill them, it might tear up a few beds in the process but it really seemed to lower their attempts to get to our produce. Why would a groundhog climb a tree? Is it normal for groundhogs to climb trees? Do groundhogs climb trees and eat leaves? What smell will keep groundhogs away? Do groundhogs destroy trees? How do you protect trees from groundhogs? Do groundhogs eat roots? Do groundhogs burrow under trees? Can groundhogs climb over fences? Can Squirrels Get Through 1 Inch Chicken Wire? One inch chicken wire is a good solution to keep squirrels away from your vegetable garden, as long as you install it properly. By encircling your garden with chicken wire, you can deter unwanted intruders and safeguard your precious plants. Their powerful claws puncture tree bark, aiding ascent. In this video, Ryan describes an effective method for keeping animals from getting under a shed. They have strong claws and agile bodies, allowing them to scale various structures. You can cover your vegetable garden with chicken mesh wire fences. Reach three to four feet above ground level. Buy five-foot posts and chicken wire (at least six feet tall). This method leverages their natural fear instincts, helping to keep your garden safe from unwanted visitors. I was thinking of using chicken wire all around to help keep out Mar 26, 2008 · Just buy fencing with small-enough openings that young rabbits and voles can't wedge through. The groundhogs finally found their way into my vegetable garden after five years and are now completely decimating all of my plants. If it's too expensive to replace it all with hardware cloth, 2x4" welded wire will work, too. Nov 20, 2023 · Chicken wire or other light-duty livestock fencing is more than adequate, although I would recommend against putting your trust in plastic fencing because the powerful incisors of groundhogs can easily chew through it. Cats are notorious for their agility and climbing skills. Understanding Feline Agility Before we delve into the specifics of cat climbing abilities, it Nov 22, 2021 · How do I keep groundhogs from climbing my fence? Buy chicken wire (at least six feet tall) and five-foot posts. Aug 17, 2025 · Groundhog Agility and Climbing Habits Groundhogs can climb despite their stocky appearance. Regular inspection and maintenance of the fence are necessary to patch up any potential entry points. Attach the fencing to the posts except for the top foot. I'm considering 2x4 inch welded wire fencing because it's robust and should last a long time. They can make their way up tall trees and navigate narrow surfaces with ease. While chicken wire may seem like a sturdy barrier, the reality is that a determined groundhog can indeed gnaw through it. Feb 19, 2023 · Once Groundhog Day has come and gone, the humble groundhog regains its status as unwanted intruder. Mar 6, 2025 · While these decoys may not work for all groundhogs, they can be a useful part of an integrated pest management plan. It is secured to the post below the top of the post with zip ties so that it can't easily be pulled off the post by a ten pound ball of climbing fur. See four safe and simple ways to keep groundhogs out of your garden space and stop them from destroying your vegetables and property! Now need to decide on what fence material to use. Any crops anyone has had success with growing unprotected? Jun 7, 2025 · Can groundhogs climb other types of fences? Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are notorious for their impressive digging skills, but can they climb fences? The answer is yes, they can! While they may not be the most agile climbers, groundhogs can scale certain types of fences, especially those with rough surfaces or inadequate barriers. They also have strong claws that can grow up to an inch long. ) and not covered, predators like possums and coons can climb it just like climbing a ladder. It's best if you can line the bottom 2' of that with hardware cloth, though. 6 days ago · When they hit the horizontal mesh, they’ll often give up. Chicken wire? The conversation revolves around ways to prevent groundhogs from digging under fences, with various suggestions Groundhogs are super persistent and resourceful, I agree with many comments here. Bury the wire twelve inches deep to prevent tunneling. We will walk you through the steps to properly install chicken wire around your garden. I have a garden tent I leave open in the day time but now need to keep it out so Jan 8, 2019 · The groundhogs seem very resourceful. May 27, 2015 · I’m planning on setting up a garden in my back yard and while mapping out where I wanted to put it, we had a visitor. This is not the case for chicken wire, which they can bite through and some animals will. Protecting it from the chickens is easy, but those other critters have been destroying everything! I read about a 3-foot-tall chicken wire fence being HGTV shares all-natural and effective ways to get rid of groundhogs and keep them away, including trapping groundhogs and fencing your garden. Chicken wire is commonly used to keep poultry contained, and its construction makes it difficult for groundhogs to scale. Fence climb at 1:10 Skip the cable setup & start watching YouTube TV today for free. 4 days ago · Groundhog fencing supplies & woodchuck fence kits – Buy manufacturer direct & save. I have found several ways to try to keep them out including putting a layer of mesh fencing on the ground. Key Takeaways: Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, can jump up to 25 feet high. This buried L-shape creates a barrier groundhogs encounter if they attempt to dig alongside the fence. Then save $23/month for 2 mos. Are groundhogs, woodchucks, or other burrowing animals a problem. The thickness and gauge of the wire, as well as the bar spacing, can make a significant difference in preventing groundhog penetration. Electric fencing is probably the most effective material because woodchucks can climb and burrow. Oct 10, 2023 · Unearth the answer to "Can Groundhogs Climb Fences?" on our site. Will chicken wire keep groundhogs at bay? Groundhogs can jump short fences and tunnel beneath others, so it’s critical to do this correctly. ” Even though groundhogs are good climbers, you can protect your gardens with fencing, which work best when protecting relatively small areas. e. " I'd like to know the minimum gauge that wire needs to be so that it's impossible for raccoons to bite through it. Can a groundhog climb chicken wire? Groundhogs are good climbers, but they don't like wobbly fences. May 20, 2009 · I have chicken wire on the sides and top of my run. Dec 29, 2025 · Make use of a fence made of chicken wire or hardware cloth that stands at least 3 feet tall and extends 1 foot below ground to prevent digging. What is the best way to get a Woodchuck off the ground? That usually entails some kind of fencing. What type of fencing is effective against groundhogs? To effectively keep groundhogs out of your garden, using a sturdy fence is essential. Nov 22, 2021 · How high should a fence be for a groundhog? Are groundhogs good climbers? Can groundhogs climb and jump? What will keep groundhogs away? What smells do groundhogs hate? How do you Groundhog proof a garden? Aug 13, 2021 · Chicken wire is very effective at keeping chickens inside, except for young chicks, who can climb through it too. The chicken wire fences can be a great option to prevent groundhogs from entering your garden. 2. Another option is installing an electric fence and reinforcing with L-brackets under the ground. Groundhogs are good climbers, but they don't like wobbly fences. While groundhogs can be deterred by physical barriers, their remarkable digging abilities and determination to find food can cause them to gnaw through weaker materials like chicken wire. ← Previous Post Next Post → Note that as groundhogs can dig, to effectively keep them out, you have to place the bottom portion of the chicken wire underground to discourage tunneling. But can they climb chickens wire is the question? Nov 22, 2021 · Can groundhogs jump and climb? Fence Them Out Groundhogs can jump over or burrow under an ordinary fence. But before we judge the groundhog, we should recognize that they are valuable to our ecosystem. Woodchucks are harbingers of spring, but the novelty ends there. Above ground, the fence should be about 4 feet high, with the top 12 inches unattached to fence posts (i. Groundhogs invade lawns and gardens in search of fruits, vegetables and ornamental plants. Install 5 or 6ft tall welded wire, possibly go in-ground with some of it or use scrap fencing to go below ground. The fence should also bend outwards at the top to discourage climbing. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Instead, I am thinking about making 6" sheets that resemble carpet tack strips, and fastening them to the rim of the beds. To avoid tunneling, bury the wire twelve inches deep. The top foot of the chicken wire is not connected to anything and it tends to flop backwards toward the outside. From wire mesh to ultrasonic repellers, protect your property with proven solutions. Nov 22, 2021 · The groundhog wont be able to chew through the metal fencing and when they go to dig underneath, they will quickly stop once they hit the chicken wire as it will feel terrible on their claws. While chicken wire might seem like a deterrent, its flexibility and ample grip points offer little resistance to these agile and determined creatures seeking access to food sources like chicken coops. Jun 10, 2025 · Will groundhogs gnaw through chicken wire? Groundhogs, also known as woodchucks, are notorious for their ability to burrow and chew through a wide range of materials, including vegetation, wood, and even metal. As for the groundhog (known as woodchucks here), your best bet is to get rid of him. can groundhogs climb chicken wire? I didn’t know I had one in the area and it just ate one of my broccoli plants. Install a 3-4-foot-high fence of hardware cloth or chicken wire with a 1-foot underground footer and at least 1 foot at the top that will wobble when the woodchuck attempts to climb it. Employing deterrents like wire mesh barriers, predator urine, and habitat modification can effectively discourage groundhogs from climbing trees. Regularly check for signs of digging or damage, especially after heavy rains. Jan 24, 2024 · Groundhogs can jump over or burrow under an ordinary fence If you feel ambitious, install a chicken-wire fence that is at least three to four feet high with the bottom buried about one foot underground. Does anyone know if the groundhogs will climb the welded wire? The chicken run should be made of strong wire mesh that the groundhog cannot dig under or climb over. To be a successful barrier, a perimeter garden fence should: Oct 26, 2024 · Understanding their climbing capabilities and potential risks is crucial for preventing conflicts with homeowners. A metal fence such as a chicken wire deters groundhogs and other predators. Ensure the chicken wire is not larger than 3-inch squares– prevent entry through the holes, and also make it at least 3-4 feet high to prevent woodchucks from climbing. Regular Inspection: Even the best fence can develop weaknesses. Jul 28, 2018 · Maybe minimal wire gauges for predators like: coon, possum, and then minimal wire gauges for something bigger like bobcat, or coyote. How to keep animals out from under your porch and shed. Natural Repellents Woodchucks are deterred by strong and unfamiliar scents. Maxed out the raised bed space, I have some full sun locations around it however have considerable deer, groundhog, and even black bear pressure. Mesh Size: Use heavy-gauge wire mesh, like chicken wire or hardware cloth, with openings no larger than 2×2 inches. Make fences three to four feet high and leave the top foot of the chicken wire unattached to the posts to stop groundhogs from climbing and tunneling. Before doing so, ensure there are no young groundhogs inside. Jan 15, 2013 · if we string barbed wire at the top of a 180 cm chicken run, would it deter a fox from climbing? or would we have to put it half way up? theres too many trees to make a roof. Best of luck with your project! Jan 12, 2025 · Are you looking for an effective way to protect your garden from pests and animals? One simple solution is to use chicken wire. Jul 24, 2019 · Hi all. Concern: Is it common for cats to climb chicken wire? Answer: While not all cats will attempt to climb chicken wire, it is not uncommon for cats to display climbing behaviors, especially if they are curious, agile, or inquisitive by nature. Nov 22, 2021 · Can groundhogs climb and jump? Fence Them Out Groundhogs can jump over or burrow under an ordinary fence. groundhogs can swim and climb trees, even though they are usually seen on the ground. Yes, raccoons can and do climb chicken wire with surprising ease. Thank you!! Jul 22, 2022 · At the top of your fence leave the last 12 inches unattached to the posts and bend the chicken wire outwards to prevent a groundhog from climbing up and over. To be a successful barrier, a perimeter garden fence should at minimum: Be made of a chicken or welded wire with mesh size no bigger than three by three inches. Apr 5, 2016 · We used 5' welded wire fencing first, then ran 2' welded wire on the bottom section. Use wire mesh, such as chicken or hardware cloth, which has smaller holes that woodchucks cannot squeeze through. Buy chicken wire (at least six feet tall) and five-foot posts. Nov 22, 2021 · Will human urine keep groundhogs away? Do groundhogs come out at night? Do groundhogs have two holes? Can groundhogs climb chicken wire? How many groundhogs usually live together? Are groundhogs bad for your yard? How many babies do groundhogs have? Additional chicken wire can be buried 1' horizontally from the fence, just under the grass, preventing digging downward groundhog. Common chicken-wire fencing, for example, works for bigger pests but lets smaller ones through. Fencing is not inexpensive, but it’s an investment in serious gardening. Groundhogs also can make extensive burrows under the soil ripping up the landscape and potentially threatening the foundation of a home. A chicken wire fence can be easily installed to keep groundhogs away and its gaps should not be more than 3" by 3" to prevent them from squeezing through the space. It's also important to regularly inspect and maintain the fence. The small holes and thin wire prevent them from getting a foothold or gaining enough traction to climb over it. Discover the 7 most effective barriers to stop groundhogs from damaging your yard and garden. I'm looking for practical advice on what kind of fence to put around my garden to protect it from (bold and urbanized) wild animals. Later we added electric wire to the outside, and laid 12"x12" concrete pads around the outside. A fence made of chicken wire or welded wire, with a height of at least 3 to 4 feet, can deter groundhogs; however, it is vital to ensure that the bottom of the fence is buried at least 12 inches underground. Mesh would be 2"x4". groundhog skunk den under porch Why not just use chicken wire or stones to block the opening? Jan 24, 2024 · Groundhogs can jump over or burrow under an ordinary fence If you feel ambitious, install a chicken-wire fence that is at least three to four feet high with the bottom buried about one foot underground. When setting your fence up for groundhogs, you want to use one wire and place the first wire at 4 inches. Bend that away from your garden to keep groundhogs from climbing over it. Fast, free shipping. Sturdy, chew-resistant mesh, combined with adequate height and a deeply buried L-footer, creates a barrier to protect gardens and yards from groundhogs. Often, we find skunk and groundhogs living under sheds, porches, and decks. Nov 22, 2021 · How do I keep groundhogs from climbing my fence? Buy chicken wire (at least six feet tall) and five-foot posts. And raccoons, at least, will reach through it and pull chickens apart while alive, piece by piece. The run should also be at least 6 feet high to deter groundhogs from jumping over it. But it could easily satisfy 10-12 layers full time. . One wire is 4 inches off the ground, and the other is 8 or 9 inches high, which is an effective combination. Jul 21, 2011 · A coon, fox or coyote can tear through that chicken wire, too. Outdoor cats face many dangers, from other animals like coyotes and dogs to cars on busy roads. Hardware cloth is low-gage (strong) wire fencing that raccoons and groundhogs can’t bite through. We use this particular enclosure to grow out 25 Freedom Ranger meat birds at a time. Fruits and tree bark are some of the things they eat here. Nov 22, 2021 · Do groundhogs climb houses? Since groundhogs climb and also burrow, you’ll need to build a secure enclosure using six-foot-wide woven-wire fencing. Unmask the climbing capabilities of these captivating creatures and more! Nov 22, 2021 · Even though woodchucks are good climbers, you can protect your gardens with fencing. The fence can be a simple design of wire mesh and posts, at least 3 feet high with a foot of wobbly mesh at the top to make climbing difficult. Nov 10, 2025 · Squirrels can climb chicken wire, especially if the mesh is large enough for them to grip. May 22, 2025 · By understanding the limitations of chicken wire and taking proactive measures, you can effectively discourage groundhogs from digging under it and enjoy a safe and groundhog-free outdoor space. Nov 3, 2025 · What Predator Can Get Through Chicken Wire? Chicken wire, while commonly used, offers surprisingly limited protection against many predators; it’s crucial to understand its weaknesses. , floppy and facing away from the garden, so that when a groundhog tries to go over the top, its weight will flip it back). Dec 4, 2023 · The Humane Society of the United States advises using sturdy materials like chicken wire mesh, which is difficult for groundhogs to chew through or climb over. The bane of To remove groundhogs from trees, you can close their burrows using chicken wire to block the entrance. Learn why groundhogs climb fences and trees in your yard, the damage they can cause, and how to keep them out with fencing solutions like chicken wire, welded wire, and electric fences. Feb 23, 2009 · Some of this forum's posts mentioned that raccoons can bite through ordinary "chicken wire. I am considering making hinged chicken-wire cages around each bed, but the amount of work and cost is deterring me (since the beds are over 8' long each). Ensure the chicken wire is tall enough to deter them from jumping over and consider adding a smooth barrier at the top to prevent climbing. GroundHog Proof? Hello everyone, Ive got a fenced off garden in north east Pennsylvania (Zone 5B). Jul 13, 2024 · Question: Can groundhogs climb chicken wire? I’m installing a fence around my garden, 3 feet tall, and I want to know if this thing can climb that high. These rodents climb trees, sometimes quite high, to escape predators or survey surroundings. But on top there are a few rips in the old rusty wire where raccoons could get in. Learn how to get rid of woodchucks and protect your garden. May 22, 2025 · While chicken wire, with its wire mesh openings, might seem like an effective deterrent, groundhogs may surprisingly gnaw through it, especially if they’re hungry, desperate, or determined to escape. Even with stapled chicken wire and all kinds of layers we really struggled to keep them out. To be a successful barrier, a perimeter garden fence should at minimum: Be made of a chicken Mar 23, 2009 · If your run is made of anything climbable (chainlink, wood, chicken wire, etc. The bane of Jan 5, 2026 · Since groundhogs climb and also burrow, you’ll need to build a secure enclosure using 6-foot-wide woven-wire fencing. If you feel ambitious, install a chicken-wire fence that is at least three to four feet high with the bottom buried about one foot underground. What Kind of Fences and Walls Can Groundhogs Climb? Groundhogs have stocky bodies, but their front limbs are long and strong. I’ve tried to relocate a fewbut It seems as though all of the hogs in the area now know this is an open buffet.

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