Having trouble lately keeping the wildlife in the wild, they seem to prefer the fruits of civilization to their natural lifestyle. Deer, bear, and myriad types of birds flock to our little farm every fall to fatten up before winter comes. I can hardly blame them for trying, they are hungry, and hunger is a feeling that will drive you to do just about anything.

But its our job to keep them out, and after trying fences, electricity, netting, noise cannons (the neighbors really love these), constant harassment, live trap relocation, and lastly, guns I can tell you that none of these options is a truly effective deterrent. The only thing that seems to make a dent is the use of a combination of multiple actions and real diligence in keeping fences mended, electrical lines clear and checking nets for ensnared birds.

I haven’t given up hope yet though, I am wondering if possibly the installation of a one way gate might help to remove animals that have breached my barricades and now must face the same walls when they attempt to leave. This also might help to encourage them to exit back into the wilderness side of the property, rather than just being spooked into the neighbors place. It seems the department of highways has used them to usher animals out of fenced highway zones, and (they claim) it has been met with some success.

The gates are a simple design, with some formed poles placed over each other on spring loaded hinges so that the animal can push through, but when attempting to come back, they are met with the unwelcome end of the poles. Another important note indicated is that the fence must be funneled out so that the animals are herded toward the gate.

I’m continuing research on the matter, it would obviously take some fence restructuring to make it happen, but I will keep you updated.