Wildlife Escape Ramps
About Water Trough Escape Ramps
Diagram of Animal Escaping Water Trough
Concept - The idea of an escape ramp is simple. Trapped animals generally swim around the perimeter of a trough, looking for a way out. The escape ramp is located to intercept the critter and give them a means of escape.
General Ramp Requirements - NRCS Standard 614/645 requires the installation of an escape ramp in watering facilities.
Materials - The material used for their construction range from wood, metal, fiberglass, cement and plastic.
Configuration - It is also very important to consider the following:
Ramp should fit close to the sidewall of the tank to prevent animals from getting trapped behind the ramp.
The ramp should extend down to the very bottom of the tank. A large percentage of small animal drowning occur when the water level is only a couple of inches. If they can't reach the ramp, they aren't getting out. Give the critters a way out.
Maximum ramp slope is 45 degrees. Minimum 30 degrees.
Have a traction surface.
Wings should touch the sidewall to prevent animals from becoming trapped behind the ramp.
In large tanks ramps should be located every 30 ft.
Attachment Straps Included
How To Build Your Own Ramp - We have links to steel mesh escape ramp plans in our Publication section. The Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory has a good set of plans for a metal mesh ramp. Otherwise, we have escape ramps for sale with bulk price discounts.
Rainmaker Escape Ramp Installed in Trough