Can Foxes Jump Over Fences? Understanding Their Impressive Leaping Abilities

Foxes are remarkably athletic animals that possess an array of skills to aid their survival One that often surprises owners of rural properties is their ability to readily jump fences that cross their path Just how high can foxes jump and what does this mean for fencing as a deterrent?

An Overview of Foxes’ Physical Capabilities

Foxes have evolved as nimble predators and scavengers, able to hunt and thrive in diverse landscapes from forests to farms to urban areas. They have excellent senses of smell, hearing, and night vision Foxes can run up to 30 mph for short bursts to catch prey

But it’s their impressive leaping and climbing talents that allow them to traverse their territory and access food. Foxes belong to the Canidae family that includes athletic wolves, coyotes, jackals, and dogs. While they can’t match the 6-8 foot vertical jumps of their larger cousins, foxes have rear legs well-suited for jumping.

How High Can Different Fox Species Jump?

The two fox species most likely encountered in rural or semi-rural areas are:

• Red Fox: The red fox can vertically jump 5-6 feet from a standing position with a running start. They use jumps to pounce on mice, birds, or other prey.

• Gray Fox: Known for climbing trees, the gray fox can jump vertically around 5 feet. Their hooked claws help them grasp surfaces while climbing or jumping.

On average, most fox species can jump their own body height from a standstill. The highest fox jumps are achieved with a running start for extra momentum and lift.

Clearing Fences with Leaps, Climbs, and Other Maneuvers

Foxes’ jumping skills allow them to easily clear many fences under 6 feet tall without needing to climb or dig underneath. A motivated fox can combine jumping with climbing abilities to get over higher fences up to 7 feet.

If a smooth, solid fence prevents climbing, foxes will look for weaknesses to exploit or dig under the fence line. Foxes have been observed performing athletic maneuvers like using objects as springboards to gain extra height to clear fences.

Their determination to access food, mates, or shelter means foxes will find ways over or under nearly any fence if sufficiently motivated.

Key Considerations for Fences Meant to Deter Foxes

While foxes can be deterred, completely excluding them from a property with fencing alone is difficult. Here are some key factors when choosing and installing fox-exclusion fencing:

• Height: Fox-proof fences should be at least 7 feet tall, and 8 feet is better. This prevents most jumping or climbing over.

• Material: Use slick, sheer surfaces like metal sheeting on top sections to deter climbing. Avoid wood or mesh that offers footholds.

• Digging: Bury fence bottoms 1-2 feet underground or install an L-shaped footer. Use mesh aprons to thwart digging.

• Gates: Ensure gates fit tightly when closed with no gaps at the bottom or sides.

• Maintenance: Check regularly for breaches, holes, or loose sections needing repair to keep fencing secure.

• Electrification: Adding a baited electric wire strand at 6 inches and 12 inches off the ground can further deter foxes.

Supplementing Fences with Other Fox Deterrents

Perimeter fencing alone has limits in keeping foxes at bay. Integrating other deterrents tailored to fox behavior strengthens your defenses. Additional options include:

• Fox lights and sounds that scare with random flashes and noises
• Landscaping with prickly, unpleasant plants
• Removing any external food sources or hiding places
• Securing poultry coops, pens, and other livestock areas
• Eliminating gaps under sheds and porches
• Motion-activated sprinklers and spotlights

A multilayered deterrent plan combining fencing, aversive devices, and removing attractions may prove the most successful long-term fox control strategy.

The Bottom Line on Foxes and Fencing

The myth that a simple backyard fence will keep out a determined fox is quickly shattered by these animals’ jumping prowess. Foxes can readily leap 5-6 feet, especially with a running start. They find ways over or under most fences through athleticism, problem-solving skills, and persistence.

While fences over 7 feet tall with preventative electric wires, smooth sheer surfaces, and buried edges provide the best barrier, foxes may still foil them. Supplementing with added deterrents gives a fence the best chance of excluding foxes. But completely stopping them requires eliminating what draws them onto a property in the first place.