cattle guard
Plural
cattle guards
1
a gridded metal or concrete structure embedded in the road surface to prevent livestock from crossing
A cattle guard is a type of barrier placed across roads or driveways to prevent livestock, such as cows or sheep, from crossing. It consists of a series of metal bars or pipes spaced apart, which are arranged in a way that makes it difficult for animals to walk over or through them. The design allows vehicles to pass easily, but the gaps between the bars prevent animals from stepping on or crossing the guard. Cattle guards are commonly used in rural areas, farms, and ranches, where roads pass through areas with free-roaming livestock, ensuring that animals remain safely contained.
- She slowed down as she approached the cattle guard.
- They installed a cattle guard at the entrance to the ranch.
- He heard the cattle guard rattling as the truck passed over it.
- The cattle guard was effective in keeping animals off the highway.
- They inspected the cattle guard for damage after the winter.
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