I think they are eating around the wire. It may take them a little more effort to do it, but hey they need something to do any way. I have not seen any signs that they can not eat around the wire.
If I find any more info I will keep you guys updated.
I also thought about cutting out some of the wires in the 1/4" so they can get to it with out the babies cant get out. Like cut out every other wire on every other row. so there are some 1/2" X 1/4" holes so they can get food but not escape. I know it would be a lot of tedious work but to me it might be work it on the small scale.