Sorry, I completely missed this post when I answered. Chicken wire or chain link fence may keep out dog or coyote, but I am at a loss about the bear. Double 00 buckshot, maybe?
LOL! I think I need something that I can keep within our six foot fence, and move near to the steps to the deck in winter. We’ve had as much as four feet of snow in our backyard. I’m going to do some research. It will be safer and more convenient if I won’t have to venture out beyond the fence, the gate of which is often impossible to open in winter.