Are buffalo hard on fences?

Table of Contents

Yes, buffalo, also known as American bison, can be significantly harder on fences than traditional livestock such as cattle, due to their size, strength, and natural behaviors. This article explores the reasons behind this increased stress on fencing and strategies for mitigating the risks.

Understanding the Buffalo: A Force of Nature

The American bison, or buffalo, is a magnificent and powerful creature. Unlike domesticated cattle, buffalo retain a significant degree of wild instinct, which influences their interaction with fencing. Understanding these behaviors is crucial for effective fence management.

Size and Strength: Adult buffalo can weigh between 1,000 and 2,200 pounds. Their sheer size translates into considerable force when they rub against, challenge, or inadvertently collide with fences.
Natural Behaviors: Buffalo are known for their seasonal movements, wallowing habits (dust bathing), and territorial behaviors. These activities often bring them into contact with fencing.
Herd Mentality: When one buffalo challenges a fence, others may follow suit. This herd mentality can quickly escalate minor stresses into major damage.
Curiosity and Fear: Buffalo are naturally curious animals but can also be easily spooked. Fear can lead to panic and uncontrolled movements, placing immense strain on fences.

Why Buffalo Pose a Greater Fencing Challenge

Compared to cattle, the distinct characteristics of buffalo amplify the challenges of maintaining effective fencing. Are buffalo hard on fences? Absolutely. Here’s why:

Higher Impact Force: A buffalo weighing twice as much as a cow generates considerably more force when it bumps into a fence.
Lower Pain Tolerance: Some believe buffalo have a higher pain tolerance than cattle, making them less responsive to electric fences. While this is debated, their thick hides certainly provide greater protection.
Reduced Domestication: Their wilder nature means they are less likely to respect fencing simply because it is there.
Wallowing and Rubbing: Buffalo use fences to scratch and rub against, especially during shedding season, further weakening fence structures.

Building a Buffalo-Proof Fence: Key Considerations

Designing and constructing a fence that can withstand the pressures exerted by buffalo requires careful planning and execution. The goal is to create a barrier that is both physically robust and acts as a deterrent.

Height: Aim for a fence height of at least 6 to 8 feet. This height discourages buffalo from attempting to jump or climb over.
Materials: Opt for high-tensile wire, which offers superior strength and durability compared to traditional barbed wire. Consider using a combination of woven wire and high-tensile smooth wire.
Post Spacing and Strength: Reduce post spacing to 8 to 12 feet to increase fence stability. Use sturdy posts made from treated wood, steel, or concrete.
Corner and Brace Posts: Corner and brace posts are critical for maintaining fence tension. They should be securely anchored and properly braced to withstand lateral forces.
Electric Fencing: Incorporate electric fencing as a deterrent. Multiple strands of electrified wire, strategically placed, can discourage buffalo from approaching the fence.
Bottom Wire: Pay special attention to the bottom wire. Buffalo are prone to pushing under fences. Consider using a ground wire or burying the bottom wire slightly.

Types of Fences Suitable for Buffalo

Several types of fencing are commonly used for buffalo management, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Fence Type	Description	Advantages	Disadvantages
———————-	—————————————————————–	—————————————————————————–	—————————————————————————
High-Tensile Wire	Wires stretched very tight, often electrified.	Strong, durable, long-lasting, relatively low maintenance.	Requires specialized equipment for installation and tensioning.
Woven Wire	A mesh of interwoven wires.	Effective barrier, prevents animals from pushing through.	Can be expensive, susceptible to damage from impacts.
Barbed Wire	Wires with sharp barbs spaced along their length.	Relatively inexpensive.	Can cause injury to animals, less effective than other options.
Electric Fence	Wires carrying an electric charge.	Cost-effective, deters animals from approaching the fence.	Requires a power source, can be unreliable in wet or overgrown conditions.

Common Mistakes When Fencing for Buffalo

Even with the best intentions, mistakes can occur during the fencing process, compromising the effectiveness and longevity of the structure. Recognizing these common pitfalls is essential.

Insufficient Height: Underestimating the jumping ability of buffalo and building fences that are too low.
Weak Posts and Braces: Using undersized or improperly installed posts and braces, leading to fence failure.
Inadequate Wire Tension: Failing to properly tension high-tensile wire, resulting in a slack and ineffective fence.
Neglecting Maintenance: Ignoring routine maintenance, such as tightening wires, replacing damaged components, and controlling vegetation growth.
Improper Grounding of Electric Fences: Faulty grounding of electric fences drastically reduces their effectiveness.

Maintaining Your Buffalo Fence: A Proactive Approach

Once the fence is built, ongoing maintenance is crucial for ensuring its continued effectiveness. Regular inspections and timely repairs are essential for preventing breaches and protecting your buffalo herd.

Regular Inspections: Inspect the fence at least monthly, paying close attention to corner posts, braces, and wire tension.
Vegetation Control: Keep vegetation clear from the fence line to prevent shorts in electric fences and reduce stress on the wires.
Prompt Repairs: Repair any damage immediately to prevent further deterioration and potential escapes.
Wire Tensioning: Re-tension wires as needed, especially after periods of heavy use or extreme weather.
Post Replacement: Replace damaged or rotted posts promptly to maintain fence stability.

The Economics of Buffalo Fencing

While building a sturdy buffalo fence requires a significant upfront investment, it can be cost-effective in the long run. The expenses involved in recovering escaped buffalo, repairing damaged fences, and dealing with potential liability issues can far outweigh the initial cost of a well-constructed fence.

Initial Investment: High-quality materials and professional installation will increase the initial cost.
Long-Term Savings: Reduced escape incidents, lower maintenance costs, and minimized liability risks.
Increased Productivity: A secure fence allows for better pasture management and increased buffalo productivity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How high should a buffalo fence be?

A buffalo fence should ideally be at least 6 to 8 feet high. This height is generally sufficient to deter buffalo from attempting to jump over. However, specific height requirements may vary depending on the breed, age, and temperament of the buffalo, as well as the terrain and surrounding environment.

What is the best type of wire to use for a buffalo fence?

High-tensile smooth wire is generally considered the best option for buffalo fences. It is incredibly strong and durable, and can withstand the considerable pressure exerted by buffalo. Woven wire is also a good choice, particularly for containing younger animals.

How often should I inspect my buffalo fence?

You should inspect your buffalo fence at least once a month, or more frequently if possible. Regular inspections will help you identify and address potential problems before they escalate. Pay close attention to corner posts, braces, wire tension, and vegetation growth.

What should I do if a buffalo damages my fence?

Repair the damage immediately. Do not delay repairs, as a small breach can quickly become a major problem. Use high-quality materials and proper techniques to ensure a lasting repair. If the damage is extensive, consider reinforcing the entire section of fence.

Is an electric fence necessary for containing buffalo?

While not always strictly necessary, an electric fence is highly recommended as a deterrent. It can significantly reduce the pressure on the physical fence and discourage buffalo from approaching it. Multiple strands of electrified wire, strategically placed, can be very effective.

Can I use barbed wire for a buffalo fence?

While barbed wire can be used, it is not the ideal choice for a buffalo fence. It can cause injury to animals, and it is less effective than high-tensile smooth wire or woven wire. High-tensile is generally the preferred option due to its strength.

How far apart should fence posts be for a buffalo fence?

Fence posts should be spaced 8 to 12 feet apart for a buffalo fence. Closer spacing provides greater stability and reduces the likelihood of buffalo pushing through the fence. Use sturdy posts made from treated wood, steel, or concrete.

How do I properly ground an electric buffalo fence?

Proper grounding is essential for the effectiveness of an electric fence. Use multiple ground rods, spaced at least 10 feet apart, and connect them to the fence charger with heavy-gauge wire. Check the grounding regularly to ensure it is functioning properly.

What are some signs that my buffalo fence is not working properly?

Signs that your buffalo fence is not working properly include loose wires, sagging posts, damaged braces, excessive vegetation growth, and frequent buffalo escapes. Address these issues promptly to prevent further problems.

Can buffalo learn to respect fences?

Yes, buffalo can learn to respect fences, especially if they have negative experiences with them, such as getting shocked by an electric fence. However, it is still important to maintain a sturdy and well-maintained fence to prevent escapes.

What is the most common reason for buffalo fence failures?

The most common reason for buffalo fence failures is inadequate maintenance. Neglecting routine inspections and repairs can lead to a gradual deterioration of the fence, making it more vulnerable to breaches.

Are buffalo hard on fences when they rub on them?

Yes, they certainly are! Buffalo use fences to rub against, especially during shedding season. This rubbing can significantly weaken fence structures over time, leading to damage and potential failure. Regularly inspect your fence for signs of wear and tear and make necessary repairs.