Wildlife can wreak havoc on your property, turning your beautiful landscape or vegetable garden into an unsightly and expensive mess. Fortunately, there are ways to stop unwelcome critters from entering your yard. While some preventative measures tend to be more effective than others—such as installing a fence—it’s worth the time and effort to try a variety of methods, as effectiveness largely depends on the type of animal you’re trying to keep out. Here are a few tips for deterring wildlife from visiting your home.

How to Make Your Yard Uninviting to Wild Animals

1. Make Food Sources Hard to Access

The majority of wildlife ventures onto private property in search of food. As such, you want to eliminate anything they may consider a food source. Use sturdy trashcans and keep the lid tightly secured with rocks or bungee cords. Clean up thoroughly after any outdoor gatherings with food and bring your pet’s dishes in every night. Finally, use plant covers or metal screens around your garden and trees.  

2. Install a Fence 

Enclosing your yard can be highly successful at discouraging animal activity. The key is to choose the correct material and design for the kind of animal you want to exclude. For deer, a tall and solid barrier is necessary to ensure they can’t jump over it. Coyotes, bears, bobcats, opossums, and raccoons are known to scale fences if given the opportunity. As such, a wire or chain link barrier with an angled top that’s difficult to climb over is best. Your fencing should also extend down into the ground at least an extra 6 inches to prevent animals from digging underneath. 

3. Make Your Pool Inaccessible 

Many wildlife species find pools to be just as refreshing as humans do, and they’re a good source for water. Make sure your backyard pool doesn’t appeal to these critters by keeping it covered in the off-season. You can also install an automatic-sensor sprinkler system, as a sudden stream of water is often enough to scare them off. Placing a fence around the pool is another option that will not only help to hinder animals but will also increase safety for your children and pets. 

If you need quality fencing to keep your family, pets, and property safe from wildlife, contact Security Fence. Based in Cookeville, they’ve been providing homeowners throughout middle Tennessee with reliable and affordable fence solutions for more than 40 years. They have a variety of materials and styles to choose from and can help advise you on the best products to complement your property. Call (931) 526-3603 to request an estimate or visit them online for more information on the versatile range of fencing styles they offer.