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Living Well with our Wild Neighbors
Exclusion Devices

Holes under buildings can be fenced off, by sampling using hardware cloth to completely cover the hole. Make sure it is flush with the building, so animals cannot get their paws behind it, and make sure it is buried at least 6 inches underground. Only use this form of exclusion device when you know that no animals are present under the building. If you are uncertain, use a one-way door that will allow animals to leave but not return. Do not use any exclusion device if you think babies may be present (April-September). Wait until they leave, then close off the area.

Example of a one-way door. This can be built using furring strips or 2 x 2s, or attached directly to wood siding. Construct an open rectangular frame, larger than the hole to be covered. Use a heavy wire (e.g., coat hanger wire) to make a hinge. Wrap the hardware cloth loosely over the hinge, and attach it loosely with wire staples to the frame. When cutting the hardware cloth, leave the side edges rough to discourage animals from pawing at the door. The door should completely cover the opening in the frame. Add a little weight to the door by folding over a little bit of hardware cloth on the bottom, folding it to the outside so the door fits flush with the frame. Attach the frame over the hole, by attaching directly to the building, or fixing heavy wire or rebar to the sides of the frame and pushing these into the ground. The frame must be tight to the building, and the door must swing free, but fall back into place and be flush with the frame. When you are certain the animals have left the area, the door can be fastened closed, or the frame can be replaced with a more permanent exclusion device.

Fencing off chimneys and vents. Fireplace chimneys and vents can be covered with hardware cloth or wire mesh.

For additional information, see these pages:

FAQ
Rabies in Arizona Wildlife