Large Mammal Fencing

Large mammal fencing

Large mammals such as deer, elk, and moose pose a serious safety risk on roads, particularly in rural or forested regions where wildlife habitats intersect with transportation corridors. Collisions between vehicles and these animals can result in substantial vehicle damage, human injury, and fatalities. In addition to the human toll, these incidents negatively impact wildlife populations and can disrupt natural movement patterns, especially during migration or dispersal. As traffic volumes and speeds increase, so does the likelihood and severity of wildlife-vehicle collisions (WVCs), highlighting the need for effective mitigation.

Wildlife fencing is a proven and reliable solution to reduce the risk of collisions with large mammals. Properly designed fencing prevents animals from accessing the road and instead guides them toward safe crossing structures such as wildlife overpasses and underpasses. When used together, fencing and crossing structures not only enhance road safety but also help maintain ecological connectivity. By enabling animals to move freely and safely between habitat areas on either side of the road, these integrated systems reduce habitat fragmentation, support healthy wildlife populations, and promote long-term ecosystem resilience.

The type of fencing material used can also influence its effectiveness. Solid or opaque barriers such a Animex can reduce visual distractions from passing vehicles, which may help deter some animals—particularly large mammals—from attempting to cross at unsafe locations. In contrast, transparent materials like mesh or chain-link fencing allow animals to see through to the other side, which can increase attempts to breach the barrier, especially if they perceive attractive habitat or other animals nearby. In areas with high wildlife movement or sensitive species, incorporating visual barriers into fencing design can improve guidance toward designated crossing points and enhance overall system performance.