Invisible Deer Fence: Protect Your Garden with a Nearly Invisible Electric Fence

True gardening enthusiasts will be very upset if they have to wait several hours for a beautiful garden, only to have it ruined by a herd of deer that can come and go freely. A conventional fence will undoubtedly provide some protection, but it is usually large, unsightly, and ruins the place's charming look. On the other hand, an invisible deer fence is a discreet yet effective way to deter deer from your garden without compromising its beauty. Therefore, the article will address the operation of this modern electric fencing, its benefits, and why it suits homeowners who value both functionality and elegant design. Keep reading to learn how to safeguard your garden without compromising its delightful appearance. Find more info now.

Introduction to Invisible Deer Fences

Invisible deer fences are extremely efficient and error-free if one considers them ways to exclude deer from gardens and landscapes without the compromise of the property's appearance. Usually, the fences make use of electric or non-electric lines, which are virtually unperceivable for deer until they physically walk over them. Once they do that, the deer get a safe but clear feeling, which is enough for them to avoid the place and hence, no deer shall enter it again. This fencing is specifically for those homeowners who want to keep their gardens safe, but at the same time, preserve the natural beauty of their gardens.

What is an Invisible Deer Fence?

An invisible deer fence is a very discreet way of keeping deer out of certain areas using mainly electric or non-electric wires. The solution is not to block the view or alter the landscape's aesthetics but to create an invisible barrier around the area where deer are unwanted.

How Does an Electric Fence Work for Deer?

The electric deer fence method is a simple process that delivers a low-strength electric shock to an animal that comes into contact with the fence wires. The instant a deer touches the wire, it completes the circuit, delivering a sudden but soft shock. This shock is termed to be negative reinforcement and thus the deer get to know that the fence causes pain and, hence, they will not be trying to cross over there in the future.

Modern electric deer fence consists of high-tensile, thin wires installed on posts, with one or more electrified strands. The height of the fence is very crucial as deer can easily jump very high—the height commonly recommended for electric deer fence is 6 to 8 feet. There are also complex systems that come with additional features such as baited wires that lure deer to the fence and they first go through the shock before reaching the fence thus the overall effectiveness is increased.

The effectiveness of electric fencing for deer control depends heavily on proper installation and maintenance. Studies have shown that browsing can cause up to 90% damage, but with proper system use, it can be reduced to zero, making the area inaccessible and vulnerable. The solar-powered electric fencing is another method that is becoming more and more appealing because it provides a sustainable and economically wise solution not only for home owners but also for land managers.

Through regular maintenance and vegetation checks around the wires, which can degrade the electrical charge, optimal performance can be ensured. The combined use of reliable deterrent methods with proper installation and maintenance makes an electric fence a practical and effective way to control deer populations.

Benefits of Choosing a Nearly Invisible Fence

Aesthetic Appeal

For homeowners who love uninterrupted views and want to keep their property beautiful, nearly invisible fences are the right choice, as they blend seamlessly into the surroundings and preserve the landscape's natural beauty.

Cost-Effectiveness

These fences, which are not usually seen, are the economy of the future as they are the cheaper alternative for the traditional ones. With simple construction that requires only a few materials, and thus, very little labor, they are the economical solution with quality still intact.

Durability and Low Maintenance

The life of an almost imperceptible fence is prolonged up to the extent of overcoming the most severe weather conditions which are rain, snow, and sun. Therefore, they will require minimal attention during periodic checks; over time, this will reduce costs and save time.

Flexibility in Installation

Very few fencing options are as versatile and can be installed on most surfaces, including hilly or hard-to-reach areas, as nearly invisible fencing. Estates with unusual terrain or requirements are given installation flexibility.

Effective and Humane Wildlife Control

The fences which are nearly invisible are very effective in preventing animals like deer from entering the gardens without causing any harm to the animals. The electric shock acts as a safe repellent thus resulting in the humane handling of wildlife while at the same time safeguarding the fields, gardens, and properties.

Understanding Deer Damage and Landscape Protection

The difficulty of deer damage is a very hard problem to solve for property owners and it is particularly true in areas with a high deer population. New studies show that one deer can consume even ten pounds of plant materials per day which will cause considerable loss in gardens, landscapes, and even agricultural fields. Besides food, deer will also pursue the ornamental plants, vegetables, and young trees, with a negative impact both on the aesthetics and on the finances.

Besides eating, deer also damage plants in the landscape through trampling, stripping tree limbs, and soil compaction which result in poor plant growth and overall soil degradation. The financial impact is significant, with the National Wildlife Research Center estimating that deer-related damage costs hundreds of millions of dollars in the U.S. agricultural sector each year.

The deer problem can be addressed through various methods. One of the solutions that have been tested and found to be effective is nearly invisible fences with controlled electric charges. The fences serve as a barrier for the deer without causing them harm, thereby providing a humane method of wildlife management and property protection. Other approaches, such as deer-resistant plants and natural repellents, can be combined with fencing to keep the areas free of deer damage.

Common Types of Deer Damage

Nature and human-made areas suffer major devastation caused by deer and in several instances, their activities must be managed through active management. Deer damage is done in different ways which are common, and here is a list of these activities along with the most recent data and insights to support the claims:

Plants and Crops Browsing

Deer are significant contributors to damage in both gardening and agriculture by eating a wide variety of plants, shrubs, and crops. The loss of about $1.1 billion each year from deer-related crop damage is only one of the many challenges U.S. farmers face. Deer feed mainly on the most tender parts, such as shoots and leaves, and that’s why the ornamental plants, fruit trees, and vegetables are the most susceptible to deer.

Damage to Tree Bark

Deer in winter and fall attack trees by removing the bark and raking it across to the nutrients below. The deer become used to this diet and as a result, “bark stripping” can ultimately cause the death of even very young trees or just weaken them. A study by three experts estimated that 60% of seedlings in certain areas died due to deer attacks.

Mating Season Rub Damage

During the mating season, bucks or male deer often rub their antlers on trees to define their territory and to get rid of the velvet. Rubbing can peel the bark and damage the tree's core, particularly in small or medium-sized trees. The research further notes that softwood trees such as maples and oaks are also at risk.

Garden and Landscape Destruction

Deer are frequent criminals who invade gardens and landscape designs and cause major destruction by the green areas, flowers, and aesthetic plants. The 2023 survey found that in areas with deer, over 40% of residents reported their gardens suffer significant losses each year due to these animals.

Spread of Diseases Through Saliva or Feces

Unwittingly, deer are major vectors of disease to other animals and plants, and even to humans, through contaminated saliva and feces on soil, water, and plants. There seems to be a correlation between deer and tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease since the ticks in those areas harbor deer as hosts and thus the disease gets transmitted.

However, even if a person has suffered damage from deer on their property, there is some light: there are ways to safeguard one's landscape using strategies that are both humane and efficient.

How an Invisible Fence Protects Your Garden

An invisible fence is a modern-day solution and yet very effective in keeping deer out of your garden without the use of unsightly physical barriers. Instead of changing deer behavior through traditional fencing, invisible fences use wireless technology and conditioning to operate. The system typically consists of a transmitter, a buried wire or wireless area, and a receiver collar worn on the animal.

In case a deer approaches the invisible fence, first the collar will sound a warning and then will give a light electric shock, which is meant to be a deterrent for the deer moving into the area of the fence. Over time, the deer learn the signal of the warning which is the boundary of the garden that they will not be allowed to cross, thus the deer are kept out of the garden without being harmed. It is also worth noting that the recent upgrades in the invisible fence technology have made these systems more reliable, with some offering adjustable ranges to cater for different-sized properties and gardens.

According to studies, areas that use invisible fences for wildlife management experience up to 60% less deer-related damage to gardens and crops. Moreover, the invisible fences are nearly maintenance-free and can withstand all kinds of weather, making them durable over the long term. They allow the farmers to enjoy the scenic beauty of their areas, and at the same time, the protection of their plants and harvests is assured.

This selective approach is not only a sign of modern human-wildlife interaction but also helps minimize suffering for both animals and humans while effectively resolving the deer movement problem. It may be advisable to use additional scare tactics, such as motion-activated lights or deer-resistant plants around the fence, to provide an even more secure defence for your garden alongside the fence installation.

Environmental Considerations: Ticks and Other Pests

Removing ticks and other pests is often necessary when managing a garden or property, as they can pose risks to people and the environment. The following points give a very detailed classification of the most common pests and their impacts:

Ticks

Ticks are parasites that spread diseases and cause severe illnesses such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and tick-borne encephalitis. These insects primarily live in lush green meadows, dense bushes, and woods, so regular cutting and trimming of plants are required to reduce their numbers. According to the CDC, for the past two decades, tick-borne diseases in the United States have increased steadily and without interruption.

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are responsible for transmitting several diseases and viruses such as West Nile virus, Zika virus, and malaria. The absence of moving water sources, for instance, a pond or blocked gutters, leads to water accumulation which is favorable for the mosquitoes' breeding cycle. The anti-mosquito strategy includes, for example, planting non-toxic insect-repellent plants such as citronella and removing stagnant water.

Mice and Rodents

Mice and rats not only eat fruits and vegetables but also spread diseases such as hantavirus and salmonella. One approach to the problem of mice is to close off the entrances in the buildings; another is to grow mint plants, which act as natural repellents.

Japanese Beetles

Japanese beetles are harmful insects that damage plants, sometimes causing death. They primarily consume leaves, flowers, and fruits. If they are few in number, one of the ways to control them is to handpick them off plants or alternatively to introduce their natural enemies, like birds, into the area.

Aphids

Aphids are small insects that feed on plants and the affected plants are slow-growing and have poor health. As a natural and balanced means of aphid population control, a population of ladybugs or lacewings can be introduced into the garden. Their presence will not affect the others.

Simultaneously considering environmental health and pest control is the key to integrated pest management practices that do not harm ecosystems unnecessarily while still allowing the garden to thrive.

Installation Tips for Invisible Deer Fences

Choose a Suitable Spot

The first step in setting up an invisible deer fence is to mark the boundaries on a map of your yard or garden. The location should be sufficiently spacious and thoroughly cleared of any barriers like boulders, thick shrubs, or trees that could cause a reduction in the fence’s efficacy.

Obey Manufacturer's Directions

The manufacturer’s instructions should be carefully reviewed, and you should follow them step by step during system installation. Factors such as whether the wire is to be buried deep, the spacing between wires, and the arrangement of the transmitter device should be considered to increase effectiveness.

Test the System Before Completion

After wiring is complete, conduct a full test of the fence to verify proper operation. Signal and coverage strength around the perimeter should be assessed using either the receiver collar or testing device that came with your purchase.

Constant Maintenance

Develop a routine maintenance plan to ensure the system is always in optimal working order. Checking the line for damage, monitoring battery levels in collars, and testing the signal transmitter's functionality are part of the routine to prevent interruptions.

Train the Deer/Wildlife

Try to observe wildlife, especially deer, as they interact with the barrier once it is installed. If necessary, adjust the deterrent settings to familiarize them with the area's limitations without stepping over the fence.

Choosing the Right Fencing Material

Choosing the right fencing material is a difficult task but it is definitely the first step in paving the way for the barrier system's efficiency and durability. Material selection will be fire-determined by factors such as the specific animal species you want to exclude, the weather and climate, your budget, and maintenance requirements. Below is a list of the most frequently used materials along with their features:

Woven wire fencing

Woven wire fencing is one of the strongest and most sensible ways to keep deer and other large animals out. It is made of very tightly woven metallic wires that form a strong physical blockade. Typically, it is recommended to have a minimum height of 8 ft to prevent deer from jumping over. Galvanized steel wire alternatives are highly rust-resistant and can ensure long-term performance. The average price per foot ranges from $1.50 to $4, depending on the wire's height and quality.

Electric fencing

Electric fencing is the ultimate solution in areas where wildlife intrusion is a frequent problem. These fences operate by delivering a mild shock to the animals, which discourages them from approaching the wires. Electric fencing is less costly and nearly as effective, priced at around $0.90 to $2 per linear foot. The fenceis reliability largely depends on maintenance, including checking wires, grounding systems, and energizers.

Plastic or Polypropylene fencing

Plastic fencing, made primarily from high-strength polypropylene, is lightweight, flexible, and easy to install. While it is not as durable as metal fencing it may still be a less expensive and less intrusive option for small plots of land or gardens. This type of fencing typically costs $0.85 to $1.50 per foot. However, it is advisable for areas with less wildlife as larger animals might occasionally make their way through.

Wooden fencing

Wooden fencing is an enduring and attractive option for property boundaries. Pressure-treated wood is treated with preservatives and can last for decades when properly maintained. Wooden fencing is very effective in repelling small animals but on the other hand, it may require extra height or reinforcement to keep deer away. Prices range from $3 to $10 per linear foot, depending on the type and quality of wood.

Combination fencing systems

Combining two or more fencing types can provide greater benefits for your barrier. For example, if you put up woven wire at the bottom and an electric strand at the top, you can stop both climbing and jumping. It is a little bit more expensive but it does a great job of securing areas that are heavily populated with wildlife.

Additional considerations

When choosing materials, consider your locality's weather. For instance, regions that experience heavy snow may require fencing that can resist the weight, such as reinforced metal. The same goes for the coastal area where saltwater is the element and thus rust-resistant materials like vinyl-coated wire are needed. Always weigh the initial expenditure against the lifespan and maintenance costs to maximize your investment.

Step-by-Step Installation Techniques

Measure and Mark Your Fence Line

Start by measuring the perimeter of the plot you want to fence. Then hammer in the nails and run the string to accurately delineate the fence line. This operation will not only ensure the fence is straight but also provide you with a rough layout before proceeding.

Prepare the Ground

Excavate the fence line and remove all soil, stones, and vegetation. If the surface is uneven, you may level it so that your fence would be erected correctly. An even surface will not only make it easier to install the posts but also prevent gaps from forming at the base of your fence.

Set the Fence Posts

Dig post holes along the marked fence line at even intervals and ensure they are deep enough to support the post firmly (approximately one-third of the post height). After that, place the posts in concrete and do not resume work until the concrete has set.

Attach Fence Panels or Materials

Once the posts are installed, the next step is to install the chosen fencing material, such as panels, wire, or boards. Everything must be leveled and tightened, for otherwise misalignment of materials can adversely affect the fence's aesthetics and even its lifetime.

Inspect and Finalize the Installation

Once all materials are in place, walk around the fence and check for cracks, areas requiring repair, or misaligned parts. Make the necessary changes and, as a final touch, apply a coat of paint or weatherproofing to extend the fence's life and enhance its appearance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Installation

Missing Proper Measurements

Insufficient measurement can result in a crooked fence that is either highly visible or has small gaps between the fence and the ground. A systematic measurement plan, with the cuts or material positioning repeated multiple times, will help prevent costly errors and the need to redo work of an unpleasant nature.

Not Ground Preparation

Ground and leveled improperly can cause posts to be unstable and fence panels to be uneven. Ground clearing and leveling at the site where the installation will occur will give the fence the required support and this will be the durability factor for the fence.

Wrong Tools or Materials

Wrong or poor-quality tools and materials will cause the fence to have a shorter life and hence a lower quality. While choosing the materials, think of the character of your land and the local climate as well as ensuring that the tools are appropriate for the size of the project.

Incorrect Post Installation

Standing posts with insufficient depth and support may cause the fence to lean or eventually collapse. Fence posts need to be driven deep (usually about a third of their total length) and adequately supported by concrete, firm foundations, or other methods.

Forgetting to Check for Property Lines and Permits

Erecting a fence without first marking the precise property lines and obtaining the necessary permits will likely lead to disputes with neighbors or even legal action. It is always better to be safe than sorry and thus it is advisable to check ownership as well as the local rules and regulations before the installation is started.

Maintenance Advice for Your Invisible Deer Fence

Well-kept invisible deer fences will remain operational and last a long time. Some deep recommendations will help you keep your barrier activating in effective ways:

Regular Inspections

Your fence should be checked regularly for any signs of wear and tear. A complete inspection of the wires, posts, and connectors should be conducted to verify there is no damage, weakening, or rust. Professionals say seasonal inspections or doing them after major storms is very crucial for early detection of problems before they escalate.

Vegetation Management

Overgrown vegetation can affect the operation of an invisible deer fence especially when the latter is an electric-powered one. Shrubs, vines, and grass that touch the wires should be trimmed, as they may reduce conductivity. Some references recommend maintaining a 3-foot clearance zone around the wire for optimal performance.

Testing the Current (if electric-powered)

Regularly check the voltage across the fence with a voltage tester. It is recommended to test monthly, or more frequently if you notice a decline in the fence's effectiveness at repelling deer. The latest guidelines state that a fence should have at least 4,000 to 5,000 volts to be effective in repulsion.

Repairing Damage Immediately

A fence with even minor damage will not perform as intended. If there is a broken wire, grounding rods need to be replaced, or posts are to be tightened, then it should be done as per the severity of the damage immediately. Delaying repairs may lead to more severe issues, such as deer getting through the weak point.

Winter Preparation

The extreme winter conditions will challenge fences. For the winter season, every post must be fortified and the areas that have lost their strength must be replaced. If the snow on the fence is deep enough for deer to hop over the fence line, clear the area or rearrange the fence posts.

Monitor Deer Activity

Keep an eye on the behavior changes of the deer and the ups and downs in the deer population around you. If you notice more deer than normal, it may be a good idea to increase the height or the voltage of your fence, depending on the new recommendations from the wildlife management resources.

Maintaining your invisibility deer fence with these habits will ensure its longevity and continued protection of your estate. Always stay on the lookout for the latest innovations and breakthroughs in fence materials and technologies so you can adjust your maintenance practices accordingly.

Regular Inspection and Upkeep

To get the most out of your invisible deer fence and to give the best possible service, you need to be constant in your inspection and maintenance approach which was a systematic way of doing things all through. It is wise to conduct a monthly check of the fence to ensure it is functioning properly and to inspect it for damage from weather, animals, or other external factors. The wiring, posts and voltage levels are the areas that should get your concentrated attention since these directly affect the efficiency of the fence.

A recent wildlife management study reports that an aging fence has a deer-repelling effect 30% lower than that of a well-maintained fence. Ensure that no vegetation of any type, e.g., branches or shrubs, is in contact with the fence, as this can cause grounding problems, which subsequently lower the voltage. Occasionally, use a voltage tester to verify the electrical output along the wall; generally, 4,000 to 5,000 volts is considered adequate to drive deer away.

Seasonal changes also influence fence performance. For instance, in case of heavy snow, the deer might find it easier to jump over your fence as it would hardly be seen in their view. To avoid this, you could consider trying some adjustments according to seasons like increasing the fence height or reinforcing it. Keeping track of the latest trends and technologies from reputable industry players will be very helpful for decision-making on upgrades or repairs. This preventive measure ensures that your invisible deer fence not only becomes but also remains a dependable barrier against unwarranted intrusions onto your property.

How to Troubleshoot Common Issues

Installing an invisible deer fence requires ongoing maintenance to ensure it remains effective. There are five most common issues, along with their solutions that can help you in such situations:

Fence Damage or Breakage

Reason: Damage can occur because of the nature, such as storms, tree or branch falling, or even animal activities near the fence.

Repair: Always conduct perimeter inspections and begin repairs or replacements immediately upon identifying the damaged part. If damage is occurring too frequently, you might want to consider using a stronger material.

Signal Interference

Source: A fence may not be able to produce a clear signal if the electronic devices installed next to it are too strong or the fence itself is misinstalled.

Resolution: Verify the existence of the sources of interference, get rid of those, make sure all the components are appropriately installed and grounded as required.

System Malfunction

Reason: The system may not be operating properly due to power failures, equipment malfunctions, or neglected maintenance.

Solution: System testing should be done regularly, the power supply should be restarted, and faulty components like transmitters or receivers should be replaced.

Height Ineffectiveness

Reason: The fence height is diminished because of factors like accumulated snow, overgrown vegetation, or land erosion.

Resolution: Adjust the fence height with seasonal changes, trim plants, and address affected land areas to maintain the required height of the barrier.

Deer Circumventing the Fence

Source: Deer can find and enter weak spots in the fence.

Solution: Inspect the fence for places where there are gaps, uneven tension, or the wall is low. Identify such locations, reinforce them, and, if appropriate, use deterrents alongside the fence.

Consistent inspection and prompt action are the key to overcoming these barriers and ensuring your fence remains productive throughout the year.

Enhancing Durability and Performance

The lifespan of your fence and its top performance depend heavily on effective maintenance practices. We present to you five ways to adopt:

Regular Cleaning

Details: Over time, dirt and plants may cover your fence, potentially creating weak spots. If you clean the fence regularly, you can maintain it and reduce the risk of rust, rot, and decay.

Data: A properly kept fence can last for about 20 or more years, while a neglected one can deteriorate in less than 10 years.

Protective Coatings

Details: Applying protective coatings such as paints, sealers, or stains creates a barrier on the fence that prevents moisture and UV rays from entering and causing damage during extreme weather.

Data: Fences that are coated experience up to 50% less wear and tear when compared to the uncoated ones in moist regions.

Timely Repairs

Details: Any small damage, for example, a loose screw or broken panel should be repaired immediately in order not to make the problem bigger.

Data: Fast repairs can give a fence an extra 5 to 7 years of life on top of the average lifespan.

Weather-Resistant Materials

Details: Opt for materials such as treated wood, galvanized steel, or vinyl as they can stand nature’s worst and hardly need maintenance.

Data: Durable materials for fences have been proven to last 30% longer than those made of common materials.

Regular Inspections

Details: Conduct detailed inspections at least every six months to discover any weak points, parts that need to be raised, or insects.

Data: If inspections are performed regularly, faulty structures can be reduced by more than 40%.

If you adopt these measures, your fence will become much more reliable and last longer. Moreover, it will continue to meet your requirements for the long term.

Comparisons with Other Fencing Options

Invisible Deer Fence vs. Traditional Fencing

Cost Analysis: Electric Fence vs. Other Solutions

Effectiveness of Fishing Line as a Deterrent

In my opinion, using a fishing line as an animal deterrent is: sometimes very effective. When the line is taut and at varying heights, it creates an almost invisible barrier for animals like deer, who are often startled by the line's touch. However, it shouldn't be relied on entirely; eventually, some creatures may habituate to it, find a way through, or simply overlook it. It’s an inexpensive, low-maintenance option that's easy on the eye. Still, I think it's most effective when combined with other deterrents rather than relied on alone.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How does an invisible deer fence help to keep deer away from my backyard?

Typically, property perimeter or low-visibility mesh, an invisible deer fence literally draws a line around your garden area and teaches deer to come round your garden fence area; it is a reliable choice for homeowners that operates humanely by creating a barrier that minimizes the degree of damage that deer inflict on the plants and the hosta beds while allowing homeowners to maintain the look of their gardens without the hassle of a highly visible fence or a non-metal fencing that is obtrusive.

Are poly or polypropylene materials used in a nearly invisible deer fence system?

For sure, the vast majority of the nearly invisible deer fence systems are made of poly, polypropylene, or polyethylene twines and nets which are lightweight, UV-stabilized, and have good breaking strength; these materials are usually woven in bird netting-style or rabbit-proof enclosures that are easy to install and less intrusive compared to welded wire or chicken wire alternatives.

Do fence posts like t-posts or round posts matter in terms of installation and durability?

Fence posts are a major consideration: t-posts and round posts provide strong anchorage points for deer fence made of wire or poly net. Using galvanized t-posts or installing braces and reinforced bottom attachments will limit sagging and make the system damage-resistant due to forces from wind, wildlife, and a higher deer population.

Can deer still see or get through an almost invisible deer fence? Will a deer be the only one to test it and break through?

Deer can still differentiate the fence to some extent, and curious animals may even come closer to see where the barrier is; an almost invisible fence will usually do the job in cutting deer off if it gives a mild, unforgettable stimulus (like electrical or visual cues, for instance, netting with a visible top tape) and is continuous around the perimeter so that one deer does not lead others past a gap where the fences do not fully enclose the space.

What is the recommended height for a deer fence, six-foot or eight-foot, does it depend on the particular deer to jump over fence?

The height primarily depends on the specific deer area and their natural habits: generally, a wire fence or an 8-foot fence would discourage deer where the population is high and their jumping ability is also present; plus, there are solutions like making an impenetrable visual barrier with double-layer fences or attaching extension nets to reach the required effective height that prevents deer from crossing the mound.

What installation tips can help make an invisible deer fence that is easy to install, nearly invisible, and durable?

Dig a trench for a reinforced bottom, apply galvanized fittings and top-quality poly or polyethylene netting, install t-posts according to the suggested spacing plus braces at corners, and tie the net to the posts and the ground to ensure no wild animals and squirrels can displace it; correct tensioning and anchoring will not only increase longevity but also reduce maintenance.

Will an invisible deer fence also detour rabbits, squirrels, or other critter pests?

Some net-style or woven wire systems used for deer can be adjusted to protect from smaller critters like rabbits and squirrels by lowering the mesh height and reinforcement at the base; however, chicken wire or fixed-knot woven wire is often the better choice for ground-level exclusion while bird netting and polypropylene mesh work best when elevation is not a problem.

Is an invisible deer fence humane and effective at reducing Lyme risk from deer in residential areas?

Homeowners widely use humane exclusion systems that prevent deer without hurting them; such systems have been successful in keeping deer away from yards and reducing their traffic which, in turn, can minimize tick distribution; while no single method can guarantee complete elimination of the Lyme disease risk, presence of deer can be reduced with an efficient deer fence and thus become part of an integrated plan including vegetation management and tick control.