Okay so I’m feelin’ a bit salty this morning and figured my state of mind would lend itself to a topic that folks in the West know all too well. . . Fences Kill Wildlife!
The University of Wyoming just finished up a study on the impacts of non-wildlife friendly fencing and its detrimental effects on migratory wildlife like pronghorn and mule deer. Turns out the impact is very high. Especially during times of extreme weather such as the winter of 2022 when deep snow, extreme temperatures and outdated fences combined to kill thousands of pronghorn as they struggled along their migration paths seeking respite from the winter’s wrath.
While the results of the study seem like a no-brainer to residents of the western states, it highlights the importance of mitigating the effects of non-wildlife friendly fencing, especially along wildlife migration corridors. There is zero excuse to use antiquated fencing practices in today’s world where the grim results of this detrimental practice line the ditches of our highways – not to mention the unseen impacts off the beaten path. We know how to do better and we must, whenever and wherever possible.
For a deeper understanding of this topic and just how important it is, be sure to watch Eastmans’ new video that takes a closer look at this and other issues affecting the migratory deer and pronghorn of the West HERE.
Whether you live out West, hunt out West or are just a fan of wildlife, the issue of protecting and enhancing migration corridors is something we can all get behind.
