In mordern zoos, deer enclosure fence netting might not just for deers. Deer, giraffes, ostriches, zebras, and other herbivores are often kept together in mixed-species exhibits in zoos. These types of exhibits are known as savanna or plains exhibits and are designed to mimic the natural ecosystems where these animals coexist in the wild — especially in African savannas.
Zoos aim to recreate more realistic, enriching environments for animals and educational experiences for visitors. Grouping compatible herbivores reflects what happens in the wild.
Since many herbivores are non-aggressive and have similar habitat needs (grassland, open spaces), they can often safely share space, reducing the need for separate enclosures.
Living with other species can stimulate more natural behaviors. Animals are more mentally engaged when they encounter a dynamic environment with other creatures.
Mixed exhibits allow visitors to see how different animals share a habitat, interact, and coexist, which enhances public understanding of ecology and biodiversity.
Mixed breeding will then require strong enclosures to keep them safe. Some animals are smaller, while giraffes and zebras are larger. Therefore it is important to take into account the thickness of the mesh and rope diameter. Our deer enclosure fence netting made of stainless steel rope mesh is available in a variety of size combinations for a wide range of animals.
Giraffes: Often housed with zebras, antelope species (like elands or kudus), and ostriches.
Zebras: Commonly mixed with giraffes, wildebeest, antelope, and ostriches.
Ostriches: Frequently placed with ungulates like zebras, giraffes, and antelope.
Deer: Different species may be mixed with other gentle herbivores depending on region (e.g., fallow deer with llamas or kangaroos in temperate or mixed exhibits).
Zoos must carefully evaluate:
Species compatibility: Some herbivores, like zebras, can be territorial or aggressive.
Dietary needs: Even though all are herbivores, they may need different feeding routines or types of forage.
Size and strength: Large species like giraffes must be grouped with animals they won’t accidentally injure.
Quarantine and health: Cross-species disease risks need to be monitored.
Example: African Savanna Exhibit
Many modern zoos have large African plains exhibits featuring:
Giraffes
Grevy’s or plains zebras
Ostriches or marabou storks
Antelope species (e.g., impalas, kudu, eland)
Sometimes rhinos, though this requires special planning due to size and temperament
It is common and intentional for zoos to house various herbivores like deer, giraffes, zebras, and ostriches together when they are behaviorally and ecologically compatible. These exhibits provide a more engaging and welfare-oriented experience for animals and an educational, immersive experience for visitors.
Stainless steel wire rope mesh — both handwoven and ferruled types — is widely used and highly suitable for fencing herbivorous animals like deer, giraffes, ostriches, zebras, and others in zoos and safari parks.
✅ Why Stainless Steel Wire Rope Mesh is Ideal for Herbivore Fences:
Withstands strong impacts from larger animals like zebras or giraffes.
Resistant to corrosion, UV, and weather, making it ideal for outdoor use.
Long service life (20+ years), minimizing replacement and maintenance.
Smooth surface and flexible structure prevent injury even if animals run into it.
No sharp edges or welded points, unlike some welded mesh or traditional fencing.
Suitable for long-necked and delicate animals like giraffes and ostriches.
Offers a clear, open view — perfect for savanna-style exhibits.
Creates a “barrier-free” visual effect, enhancing the natural feeling for both animals and visitors.
Blends into the environment more seamlessly than rigid fencing.
Deer enclosure fence netting mesh can be customized in mesh size, rope diameter, and panel dimensions.
Can be used on curved, sloped, or irregular terrain.
Ideal for both vertical and horizontal installation.
🔧 Recommended Mesh Types & Specs by Animal:
Animal | Rope Diameter | Mesh Aperture | Notes |
Giraffes | 2.4-3.2 mm | 76 x 76 mm to 120 x 120 mm | Need high fences (4–5m); mesh must be flexible and safe for long necks. |
Zebras | 2.4–3.2 mm | 51 x 51 mm to 102 x 102 mm | Strong and agile — mesh must resist kicking. |
Deer | 2.4–3.2 mm | 51 x 51 mm to 90 x 90 mm | Smaller species can use finer mesh. |
Ostriches | 2.4–3.2 mm | 76 x 76 mm or larger | Mesh should prevent head or neck entanglement. |
Antelope | 3.2 mm | 76 x 76 mm or 102 x 102 mm | Mesh should resist jumping and rushing behavior. |
🛠 Handwoven vs Ferruled Mesh – Which is Better?
Feature | Handwoven Type | Ferruled Type |
Structure | Interwoven and knotted | Connected by stainless steel sleeves |
Flexibility | More elastic and flexible | Slightly stiffer |
Appearance | Seamless, cleaner look | Slightly more industrial |
Application | Suitable for animal fencing | Also ideal for architectural mesh walls |
➡
Both are suitable, but handwoven mesh is often preferred for wildlife exhibits requiring a softer, smoother texture, while ferruled mesh is favored when a more uniform panel structure is desired.
Giraffe habitats: Tall, handwoven mesh used for safety with vertical support posts.
Mixed herbivore paddocks: Large-span ferruled mesh allows division of zones without blocking views.
Ostrich and antelope exhibits: Medium-sized mesh for preventing escapes while ensuring safety.
Stainless steel deer enclosure fence netting mesh is not only safe and effective for fencing herbivores like giraffes, deer, zebras, and ostriches — it’s often the preferred solution in modern zoos because it combines strength, safety, aesthetics, and flexibility.
Contact us if you’d like help choosing mesh specifications or mesh type for your zoo enclosure projects.
Hengyi Metal Ecological Mesh
Emails: [email protected] / [email protected]