Quick Answer
A truly predator-proof fence for livestock requires: a solid mesh barrier (2x4-inch welded wire or hardware cloth for small animals), a buried wire apron extending 18 inches outward to prevent digging, electric wire at 6–8 inches to shock digging attempts, and a top electric wire or overhang to prevent climbing. The combination prevents the three predator entry methods: squeezing through, digging under, and climbing over.
The Three Predator Entry Methods
Squeezing through: Fixed by using correct mesh size. 2x4-inch mesh stops adult coyotes, foxes, and raccoons. 1x1-inch or 1x2-inch hardware cloth stops juvenile raccoons, weasels, and rats.
Digging under: Fixed by a buried apron. Predators that encounter resistance when they start digging typically abandon the attempt. The buried apron doesn't need to be deep — 4–6 inches below the surface is sufficient if it extends 18 inches outward.
Climbing over: Fixed by an outward-angled top overhang (12–18 inches angled at 45°), a top electric wire, or electric wire on the outside of the fence angled outward at the top. The climbing predator that touches the electric wire while ascending typically falls back and does not retry at that point.
Species-Specific Guidance
For chicken coops and small poultry: 1x1-inch hardware cloth on all sides including the floor, plus a buried skirt. This is the only reliable weasel-proof design.
For sheep and goat pastures: 5-foot woven wire + buried apron + electric wire at 6 inches outside + electric top wire. Effective against coyotes, dogs, and foxes.
For cattle with calf predation (mountain lion, wolf): 6-foot woven wire with extended electric fence perimeter. Physical barriers alone rarely stop large predators; work with your state wildlife agency on conflict management.
Common Failures
- Voltage too low — predators learn the fence doesn't hurt and probe repeatedly
- No buried apron — digging is the most common predator entry method
- Large mesh openings — sized for cattle, not predators
- Gates not properly secured — most predator entries occur at gate gaps
Our Recommendation
Design predator fencing around the most determined local predator in your area. In most of the US, that's coyotes — the 5-foot woven wire + apron + two electric wire system handles them reliably. In bear-active areas, add electric bait fencing. Chickens and small poultry always need hardware cloth regardless of other livestock fencing on the property. Gates need the same attention as fence panels — a well-fenced area with a poorly-secured gate is not predator-proof.