Residents of a south Dublin housing estate have been forced to take extreme measures to protect their vehicles, wrapping them in chicken wire after a spate of unexplained damage.
An Expensive and Unusual Problem
The issue came to light after around 40 electric vehicles in the Stillorgan neighbourhood were targeted. The damage has been extensive, with repair costs estimated to be in the tens of thousands of euros.
Wildlife, particularly foxes and rodents, are the prime suspects. It is believed these animals are chewing through critical car wires and components, leaving residents with hefty repair bills.
Why Are Animals Attacking Cars?
Experts have shed some light on this bizarre behaviour. They suggest that animals are attracted to the residual heat emitted by cars after they have been driven.
Furthermore, modern vehicle parts are increasingly manufactured using new, organic materials which may be appealing to wildlife for chewing. This combination of warmth and attractive materials is turning parked cars into targets.
Community Response and Expert Advice
Faced with repeated and costly attacks, the community in the Stillorgan estate has resorted to a visible, DIY solution: wrapping their cars in chicken wire and fencing to create a physical barrier.
For a more permanent and less cumbersome fix, biodiversity experts recommend a specific preventative measure. They advise vehicle owners to use chew-proof sleeve covers for exposed cables and tubes, which can deter animals without the need for full-scale fencing.
The situation, which was reported on Sunday 23 November 2025, highlights the unexpected challenges that can arise at the intersection of urban development and local wildlife.
