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As natural water sources decline in the arid west, many species of wildlife have come to depend on livestock water developments. Unfortunately, these water developments are often difficult for wildlife to access, especially bats, which are particularly vulnerable to water shortages.

Livestock water developments can also be inadvertent death traps when water levels are low and proper wildlife escape structures are not installed. This handbook for ranchers and range and wildlife managers describes how bats and other wildlife are affected by water development size, configuration, and maintenance, and describes proven methods for increasing wildlife safety and access.

This includes designs and instructions for the construction of inexpensive and effective wildlife escape structures and fencing and bracing methods that enhance wildlife access while meeting livestock management objectives. Considering the needs of wildlife in the installation and maintenance of livestock water supplies is good for wildlife, good for livestock, and just good business. Although aimed at western livestock producers, the wildlife escape structures and advice in this handbook apply east of the Mississippi River as well.

Water for Wildlife Handbook download