Wild Deer Interactions with Livestock Fencing: A Case Series

Abstract

Livestock fencing are prevalent human infrastructures affecting wild ungulate movements. Patagonian ranches may average 70 km of fencing just for their periphery, with complicated maintenance. Whereas livestock rarely challenge such fencing, wild ungulates try to pass fencing that cross their home range. Three cases of red deer (Cervus elaphus) entangled in Patagonian ranch fencing include a male with his head enrolled in wire before escaping the situation. He survived long enough such that the wires caused bone lesion and tooth loss. Another male was found soon after his death and entangled in fencing. Being the rutting season, another male approached the dead one and “fought” strongly, moving the cadaver. The third male was found dead and hanging in fencing. He likely tried to jump through the top wires, which caused entanglement, and the body hanging vertically. For deer, livestock fences are only another challenge regarding the possibility to transit through it, just as occurs with natural barriers like dense brush. Moreover, before the rut, males trash small trees and bushes, but also fences, causing death if a male gets entangled. They use fencing as the border between rutting territories, which can result in physical fights with fencing between the males, and entanglement might result in being killed. Reducing the impact of livestock fences requires constant maintenance like wire tensions. Alternatively, wildlife-friendly sectors can be created, particularly where deer crossings are concentrated.