Garden and Wildlife: The mistake of fencing that is noticed too late
Hi, it’s Judith. To save wildlife and protect biodiversity in your garden, don’t make the classic mistake of using wire mesh without openings: a simple 13×13 cm hole is enough to let hedgehogs and other small animals through and to keep the ecosystem alive around your home.
To do immediately
- Identify the areas where your fence is completely sealed to the ground.
- Make a square hole of approximately 13 cm by 13 cm flush with the ground in your fence or wire mesh.
- Coordinate with your neighbors to create a continuous ecological corridor.
- Install a sign to warn animals of the passage and calm their fears of escape.
- Avoid using robotic lawnmowers at night to respect the nocturnal lives of animals.
Local wildlife, and in particular the European hedgehog, is often trapped by barriers that are too airtight. Fences can become a real and deadly obstacle. to the movements of small mammals that find food and mates across the fragmented territory. To learn more about mistakes to avoid and best practices for a thriving garden, also visit this essential guideEach opening restores richness to the ecosystem and avoids cutting off the natural pathways maintained by habitats.
Fencing: barriers or pathways for animals?
A well-installed fence inspires confidence, but it often acts as an insurmountable barrier for small animals. A hedgehog, for example, cannot get through a completely sealed fence. It needs at least one opening of 13 cm x 13 cm—a tiny size that makes all the difference. This discreet hole allows the hedgehog and other garden inhabitants to reach other areas, access food, and find mates safely.
Blocking these passages fragments the habitat and forces local wildlife to perish or leave the area. This common mistake compromises the protection and conservation of biodiversity in a context where urbanization is progressively encroaching on natural habitats.
Creating strategic openings: practical advice
- Drill the hole at the base of your fence, close to the ground, ideally on a property line away from a road.
- Choose quiet spots, near a hedge or flowerbed to provide immediate shelter.
- Use a reinforcement plate around the opening to preserve the size and prevent it from collapsing.
- Create several openings spread out to form a true ecological corridor.
- Inform your neighbors and encourage them to do the same to create an effective network.
Robotic lawnmower: the invisible enemy of nocturnal wildlife
Robotic lawnmowers have become commonplace in gardening, but they pose a hidden danger to hedgehogs and other small animals active at night. Their autonomous nighttime operation exposes tiny animals to sharp blades. Faced with this danger, the hedgehog curls into a ball, which worsens its injuries. Avoid mowing at night Programming these devices for daytime use when animals are hiding can save lives.
The danger is greatest in tight corners or near edges, where the machine can get stuck. Increasing the cutting height and leaving refuge areas in the garden helps protect wildlife while maintaining a healthy garden.
Transform your garden into a haven for biodiversity
A welcoming garden doesn’t need to be wild, but connected. In addition to fences, leave some unmowed areas, pile up leaves, or create a small shelter to provide essential hiding places. Collective action works best, so talk to your friends and family about it.
| Action | Advantage | Practical advice |
|---|---|---|
| Drill holes measuring 13×13 cm | Safe passage for hedgehogs | Stick close to the ground, in a quiet area |
| Program the lawnmower for daytime | Less risk for nocturnal animals | Avoid mowing at night in spring and summer |
| Leave areas unmowed | Natural shelter and food | Near hedges or flowerbeds |
| Coordinate with neighbors | Create an ecological corridor | Multiple small passages around the perimeter |
| Install animal crossing sign | Inform and reassure | Place on or next to the opening |
If wildlife coexists with your dog or cat
If you have a dog or cat, make sure to secure the passages so that wild animals feel safe without your companions escaping. There are a few simple tricks to reconcile security and freedom.
If local wildlife appears disturbed or displaced, avoid direct intervention and find out how to facilitate cohabitation without harming.
Why is fencing an obstacle for hedgehogs?
Because it cuts off their natural routes and prevents their free movement, which is necessary for searching for food and a mate.
How big should the hole be in the fence?
The passage should measure approximately 13 cm by 13 cm, large enough for the hedgehog, too small for most pets.
Yes, provided that mowing is scheduled during the day and that too frequent passes and shaved edges are avoided.
Where should the openings be placed in the fence?
Near a hedge or flowerbed, on the boundary between gardens, away from roads and risk areas.
How to raise awareness in the neighborhood?
By discussing the issues, by proposing to dig the holes together, and by installing informational signs.
Thank you for your interest, Judith. It would be kind of you to leave a comment at the end of the article. Thank you all.
