Wombat Under Fence: What to Do

Updated 5 November 2026 · Standard formula, shown below

If a wombat digs under your fence, the first thing to do is fill the hole with large rocks or pavers and then install a buried wire barrier, because wombats are powerful diggers that will simply reopen an unfilled burrow. This article explains why wombats dig, how to permanently exclude them, and how to repair the damage they cause.

Why Wombats Dig Under Fences

Wombats are burrowing marsupials native to Australia, and digging is central to their survival. They create extensive tunnel systems for shelter, raising young, and escaping predators. A fence is not an obstacle to a wombat; it is just another substrate to dig through. They are particularly attracted to areas with soft, well-drained soil, which is why they often choose to dig under fence lines where the ground has been disturbed during fence installation.

Wombats are also creatures of habit. Once a wombat has established a burrow or a regular pathway, it will return to the same spot repeatedly. This means that simply filling in a hole without addressing the underlying attraction is unlikely to solve the problem. The wombat will dig again, often in the exact same location.

Immediate Steps to Take

When you discover a wombat hole under your fence, act quickly to prevent the animal from entering your property and to stop the hole from becoming a permanent entrance.

Assess the hole: Check if the wombat is currently in the burrow. Look for fresh digging, tracks, or the sound of movement. If the wombat is inside, wait until it leaves (usually at dusk or night) before sealing the entrance.
Fill the hole with rocks: Use large, heavy rocks or rubble that a wombat cannot easily move. Fill the hole to the top, then cover with soil to level the ground. Do not use only soil, as wombats can dig through it quickly.
Install a temporary barrier: For a quick fix, drive steel posts or star pickets into the ground along the fence line, spaced close enough that a wombat cannot squeeze between them. This is a temporary measure while you plan a permanent solution.
Monitor the area: Check the site daily for new digging. If the wombat returns, you may need to reinforce the barrier or consider a more permanent exclusion method.

Permanent Fence Solutions

The most reliable way to keep wombats out is to install a wombat-proof fence. This involves more than just repairing the existing fence; it requires a barrier that extends below ground.

Buried wire mesh: Use galvanized wire mesh (at least 1.8m high) and bury the bottom edge at least 30-50cm deep. Bend the buried portion outward in an L-shape away from your property. This prevents wombats from digging straight down and then tunneling under.
Concrete footing: For the most robust solution, pour a concrete footing along the fence line, extending 30-50cm below ground. This is expensive but virtually wombat-proof.
Electric fence: A low electric wire at ground level can deter wombats without harming them. The wire should be placed just above the ground and connected to a suitable energizer. This is often used in conjunction with a physical barrier.
Roller bars: Attach a smooth PVC pipe or roller bar to the top of the fence. Wombats are not great climbers, but a roller bar prevents them from getting a grip if they try to climb over.

How to Choose the Right Barrier

Choosing the right solution depends on your property, the severity of the problem, and your budget. Consider the following factors:

Soil type: In sandy or loose soil, wombats dig more easily, so a deeper buried mesh is necessary. In clay or rocky soil, a shallower burial may suffice.
Existing fence: If you have a sturdy fence, you may only need to add a buried mesh skirt. If the fence is old or damaged, replacing it might be more cost-effective.
Area to protect: For a small garden, a simple buried mesh barrier is enough. For a large property, you might need a combination of fencing and electric wires.
Local wildlife: Ensure any barrier you install does not trap other animals. Leave gaps or install one-way gates if you have other wildlife like kangaroos or echidnas in the area.

Repairing Wombat Damage

Wombats can cause significant damage beyond just the hole under the fence. They may create large burrows that undermine fence posts, destabilize the ground, and create trip hazards. Repairing this damage is essential for safety and to prevent future digging.

Stabilize the soil: Fill any collapsed burrows with a mixture of soil and rocks, compacting it firmly. For large burrows, you may need to use a mechanical compactor.
Replace damaged posts: If a fence post has been undermined, remove it and set a new post in concrete. This ensures the fence remains secure.
Re-grade the ground: Level the area around the fence to eliminate any dips or mounds that might attract wombats or make the fence less effective.
Consider drainage: Wombats prefer well-drained soil. Improving drainage along the fence line can make the area less attractive to them.

Costs and Considerations

The cost of wombat-proofing a fence varies widely depending on the materials and labor involved. A DIY buried wire mesh installation might cost a few hundred dollars for a standard suburban block. Hiring a professional to install a concrete footing can cost several thousand dollars. Electric fencing adds the cost of the energizer and wiring, but is often the most effective deterrent per dollar.

It is also important to consider the legal and ethical aspects. Wombats are a protected species in Australia, and it is illegal to harm or trap them without a permit. Always use non-lethal exclusion methods. Additionally, check with your local council for any regulations regarding fencing and wildlife.

Alternatives to Fencing

If fencing is not feasible, there are other ways to discourage wombats from digging under your fence.

Repellents: Some commercial repellents are designed to deter wombats, but their effectiveness is variable and not scientifically proven. They often need to be reapplied after rain.
Planting barriers: Planting dense, prickly shrubs along the fence line can make the area less attractive to wombats. They prefer open, grassy areas where they can see predators.
Encourage natural predators: Wombats are preyed upon by dingoes and large owls. While you cannot easily introduce these, you can avoid actions that might discourage them from the area.
Provide an alternative: In some cases, providing a purpose-built wombat shelter away from your fence might reduce their need to dig under it. This is speculative and not a guaranteed solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will a wombat dig under a fence if it’s buried? Yes, if the buried barrier is not deep enough or is made of material that can be chewed or moved. Wombats can dig to depths of over a meter, so a buried mesh must extend at least 30-50cm below the surface, ideally with an outward bend.

Can I use concrete to fill a wombat hole? Yes, you can use concrete to fill a wombat hole, but it is not recommended as a permanent solution because it can interfere with the natural drainage and may crack over time. It is better to use a combination of rocks and soil, or install a proper barrier.

Is it illegal to trap a wombat? In most Australian states, it is illegal to trap or harm wombats without a permit. Wombats are protected native wildlife. Always contact your local wildlife authority for guidance if you have a problem wombat.

How deep do wombats dig? Wombat burrows can be extensive, with tunnels up to 20 meters long and entrances that can be over a meter deep. This is why a shallow barrier is ineffective.

What should I do if a wombat is already under my house? If a wombat has burrowed under a building, do not attempt to block the entrance while the wombat is inside. Contact a licensed wildlife relocator or your local wildlife rescue service for advice. They can safely encourage the wombat to leave before you seal the area.

Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.