Electric Fences: Cattle Control And Setup Guide

Electric fencing for cattle is a popular choice for farmers and ranchers. It is a psychological barrier rather than a physical one, and when properly installed and maintained, it can be very effective at containing cattle. Planning is essential when installing electric fencing, and considerations include the length of the fence, the number of wires, and the power source. The number of wires depends on the type of cattle and the grazing situation, and the power source can be mains, battery, or solar. When training cattle to respect an electric fence, it is recommended to start with a smaller pasture and a lower-voltage fence to ensure the cattle receive a shock and learn to avoid the fence.

Planning and design

Firstly, determine the purpose of the fence. Are you primarily containing cattle, or do you also need to keep out unwanted animals like deer? Understanding the specific needs of your cattle and the potential external factors will influence the design.

Next, measure the perimeter of the area you want to fence in. This will help you determine the required length of fencing and the number of fence posts, braces, and wires needed. Walk the perimeter and consider any unique terrain or site characteristics that may impact the design and construction.

Decide on the type of electric fence charger you want to use. Electric, solar, battery, or voltage-powered options are available, each with advantages and disadvantages. Solar-powered fences, for example, are a good option in areas with consistent sunlight, but they may not be suitable for deterring stubborn cattle unless a larger unit is chosen.

Consider the number of wires and their placement. For calves, it is recommended to have at least two wires, one at a normal height and another lower wire to ensure calves do not crawl through. The number of wires can vary from two to nine, depending on whether you are subdividing a pasture or protecting against predators.

Select an appropriate energizer that delivers intense, short pulses to prevent the risk of fire and prolong the life of your fencing materials. A good rule of thumb is to choose an energizer with a pulse length of 0.0003 seconds or less. Also, consider the joule rating of the energizer, ensuring it is sufficient for the length of your fence and the number of wires.

Finally, plan for effective grounding of the system. Insert a grounding rod near the charger, leaving a few inches above the ground, and consider installing a second rod 10-20 feet from the first one. This completes the circuit, ensuring cattle receive a shock and the fence functions properly.

Installation

The effectiveness of an electric fence depends on its ability to deliver an unpleasant but non-lethal shock to animals that touch it. The number of joules needed depends on the length of the fence, the number of electrified wires, and the severity of conditions.

Before installing an electric fence, measure the amount of space you want to fence in. This will help guide your choice of controller. You will also need to decide on the type of electric fence charger you want to use. Electric, solar, battery, and voltage-powered options are available. If you don't already have a fence in place, calculate how many corner braces and fence posts you'll need. If using 6 or fewer lines, 1 brace at the ends and each corner will work. If using 7 or more lines, you will need a double brace. Purchase enough wire for your area, and consider using electric fence tape or installing coated wire, braid, or rope to indicate the location of the electric fencing.

If you are using an electric charger, you will need access to an AC outlet. Solar chargers will need to be placed in full sunlight. Leave the fence charger off during installation. Your grounding rod should be 6 feet or longer, and it's recommended to install a second grounding rod 10-20 feet from the first one. Attach your ground wire from the ground terminal on your charger to all grounding posts, securing the wire with grounding clamps. To keep the electric current in the wires and away from the fence posts, install insulators on the fence posts.

To train cattle to respect an electric fence, put any new animals in a small solid lot with a hot wire across it and let them get used to it.

Maintenance

Electric fences for cattle are easy to maintain and install. Most of your time will be spent finding faults and fixing connections to ensure a continuous circuit. This can happen when an insulator breaks and the wire touches a post. Even resetting a fence post is relatively easy, especially if you are using steel T-posts with a T-shaped anchor.

To keep the electric fence in top condition, install insulators to fence posts to keep the electric current in the wires and away from the fence posts. Affix insulators to posts, designed to position and hold the wire off the post to maintain an electric circuit. Feed the wire through the insulators along the entire fence line. Tension and secure fence lines at corner posts and gate posts. Be sure to pull the wire as tight as possible but not so much that the tension could cause it to snap.

Check the fence daily to ensure it is working. Most chargers will include a voltage meter or an indicator light that will show if the fence is active. If you see any issues, walk the perimeter, looking for any grass or shrubs that may be interfering. If you are experiencing shock issues, note that wet foliage can interrupt the shock, so consider connecting lower fence wires separately so power can be disconnected when grass gets too tall, or spray off the grass under the fence line. Thin wire will also not carry electricity as well as thicker wire, and ensure wires are at least 13 cm apart.

The effectiveness of the fence depends on its ability to deliver an unpleasant shock to animals that touch it. The ability to deliver a shock depends on the type of animal that must be controlled, the materials used in construction, and site characteristics (e.g. soil moisture, terrain, etc.). The number of joules needed depends on the length of the fence, the number of electrified wires, and the severity of conditions. Joule recommendations of chargers are dependent on the length of the fence and soil conditions. Don't skimp on the joule rating. Buying more joule capacity than currently needed will give you flexibility for future fences.

Livestock training

Electric fences are a psychological barrier that works because cattle are easily trained to fear getting zapped by an electric fence, which makes them voluntarily resist pressuring the fence. This is called livestock fencing psychology.

• The training area should be a small area that has a perimeter of woven wire or boards with the electric fence installed inside the physical fence. Keeping the area small will reduce the time it takes for animals to learn about the fence.
• When you turn stock into the training area, keep an eye on the animals but leave them alone to discover the fence on their own. Livestock are curious and will investigate the fence.
• If moving to a new field, let the animals explore the field first before erecting the electric fence.
• Run a multistrand electric system around the inside of an existing permanent stock fence. It provides a safe and controlled area where stock can get used to it.
• Avoid mixing animals before placing them in the field to reduce the risk of fighting.
• Ensure the voltage is >4,500 V.
• Consider the direction/height of the sun. If it is low, allow the animals to enter the field with the sun behind them so they can see the fence ahead.
• Observe the animals for the first hour and check regularly during the first 24 hours.
• Once all animals have encountered the fence, run a single- or two-strand fence across one corner of the field.
• Check the fence regularly for the first 24 hours, particularly wire tension, and adjust if needed.
• Using quality polywire that carries adequate current is important, too, as is being sure fences are built tight, kept clear of weeds, and other power-draining problems.
• You may want to mow in the path of an electric fence, or route temporary cross-fences around taller forage, especially for small ruminants.

Safety considerations

Electric fences are an effective way to contain livestock, but they can cause serious injury or even death if installed or used incorrectly. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the potential hazards associated with them and take appropriate safety measures.

Firstly, the electrical capacity of the fence controller (also known as an energizer) should be considered. The electrical capacity will vary depending on the type of livestock, the size and shape of the fence line, and the number of wires used. For example, a fence designed to contain cattle will require a higher electrical capacity than a fence designed for sheep. It is also important to ensure that the energizer has a reliable power source, such as a battery, solar panel, or another energy supply, as a loss of power can render the fence ineffective.

Secondly, the type of wire and insulation used is crucial. High-tensile wire is a popular choice for electric fences because it is strong and can withstand pressure from animals. The wire's material and size will affect how much voltage the fence delivers, as well as the fence's overall strength and durability. Stainless steel, aluminum, and aluminized steel wire are also commonly used materials.

Thirdly, grounding the system is essential. Poor grounding is the leading cause of electric fence problems, as effective grounding completes the circuit necessary for an animal to receive a shock.

Finally, it is important to consider the safety of children, individuals with pacemakers, pets, and wildlife. Mains energizers should be kept out of reach of children, and if a public footpath crosses an electric fence, a non-electrified gate or stile should be placed to prevent accidental contact. Additionally, separate fences powered by separate energizers should be kept at least two meters apart to avoid inducing a dangerous high voltage.

Frequently asked questions