Wiktor Wise
Electric fencing is a psychological barrier that works by training calves to fear getting zapped. This is done by setting up a small training area with a hot wire that calves must cross to get from one thing they want to another, like water to shade or water to feed. Calves will soon learn to respect the electric fence, and once trained, they will voluntarily resist pressuring it. Training calves to electric fences can save time and hassle, especially for rotational grazing systems.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of fence | Multistrand electric fence |
| Fence placement | Inside an existing permanent stock fence |
| Training period | 3-5 days |
| Number of strands | 2 |
| Strand height | 2ft and 4ft |
| Voltage | >4,500 V |
| Animal separation | Avoid mixing animals |
| Sun direction | Allow animals to enter the field with the sun behind them |
| Observation period | First hour, then regular checks for 24 hours |
| Fence running | Run a single- or two-strand fence across one corner of the field |
| Calf training area | 5 acres with 2 strands of hot wire |
| Charger | 100-mile charger |
| Calf movement | Allow calves to move from catch pens to the trap on their own |
| Visibility | Use flagging tape or light wire with aluminum pie plates for visibility |
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What You'll Learn
Use a small field with a two-strand electric fence
Training calves to respect an electric fence is a psychological process, creating a mental barrier that the calves will not cross. This method is more effective than physical barriers, which rely on the robustness of the fence.
To train calves to respect an electric fence, set up a two-strand electric fence in a small field. This fence should be placed one metre inside the permanent stock fence. The voltage should be set at >4,500 V.
Before introducing the calves, check the direction and height of the sun. If it is low, allow the calves to enter the field with the sun behind them, so they can see the fence ahead.
Observe the calves for the first hour and regularly during the first 24 hours. Once all the calves have encountered the fence, run a single- or two-strand fence across one corner of the field. Observe again for the first hour and check regularly over the next 12 hours.
After this, divide the field in half with another fence down the middle. Check the calves during the next 24 hours. If the fence has been challenged, keep the calves in the field for another 24 hours until they stop challenging it.
This training period should last between three and five days.
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Ensure voltage is high enough
To ensure calves are trained effectively and safely, it is important to maintain a voltage high enough to make a lasting impression on the calves without causing them harm. A two-strand electric fence with high voltage, for instance, can be an effective setup. One farmer reports that their two-strand fence, powered by a 100-mile charger, "will rattle your teeth it hits so hard". After encountering this wire a couple of times, calves will be ready for the larger fields.
The specific voltage requirements will depend on the type of animal being trained. For example, for sheep, +4,000 volts are recommended for shorn ewes or ewes with young lambs, and +5,000 volts for weaned lambs and ewes with fleeces.
It is also important to consider the direction and height of the sun when training calves. If the sun is low, allow the calves to enter the field with the sun behind them so they can see the fence ahead.
To ensure the voltage is high enough, it is recommended to use quality polywire that carries an adequate current. The fence should be built tight and kept clear of weeds and other power-draining problems. Regular maintenance is also important to ensure the fence remains effective.
In addition to maintaining high enough voltage, it is crucial to give calves time to learn about the electric fence through experience. This can be facilitated by setting up a small training area where calves can encounter the fence and learn to respect it. For example, you can set up a small electrically fenced pen with water and feed on opposite sides, so calves have to go around the hot wire to access what they need.
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Observe calves' behaviour for the first 24 hours
Training calves to respect an electric fence is a psychological process. Calves need to learn to associate the electric fence with a harmless but startling "zap". This creates a psychological barrier that they will not want to cross.
Observing the calves' behaviour for the first 24 hours is a crucial part of the training process. During this time, the calves will encounter the electric fence for the first time and develop a fear of the "zap". Here are some important considerations for this 24-hour observation period:
- Initial Encounter: The first step is to introduce the calves to the electric fence. This can be done by setting up a small training area with two strands of electric wire. Ensure that the voltage is sufficient (>4,500 V) and that the calves have to pass through the fence to access essential resources like water and shade.
- Calves' Reactions: As the calves encounter the electric fence, observe their reactions. Calves will typically experience a startling sensation when touching the wire, which may cause them to jump or back away. Some calves may be more hesitant and cautious, while others might be more curious or aggressive towards the wire.
- Behavioural Changes: Over time, you will notice changes in the calves' behaviour as they begin to associate the electric fence with the unpleasant sensation. They may start to avoid the wire, showing signs of hesitation or fear when approaching it. Some calves might even vocalize their discomfort or frustration.
- Individual Differences: Pay attention to individual differences among the calves. Some calves may learn more quickly than others. Certain calves might be more cautious from the start, while others require multiple encounters with the fence to develop a healthy respect for it.
- Consistency and Reinforcement: It is important to maintain consistency during the observation period. Ensure that the electric fence remains active and that the calves continue to encounter it as they move around their enclosure. This consistent reinforcement will help solidify their understanding of the fence as a barrier.
- Safety and Welfare: While observing the calves, prioritize their safety and welfare. Ensure that the electric fence is properly maintained and functioning correctly. Monitor the calves for any signs of distress or injury. If a calf appears overly stressed or injured, separate it from the group and seek veterinary advice if necessary.
- Record-Keeping: Keep detailed records of your observations during the 24-hour period. Note the time and nature of each calf's encounters with the electric fence, as well as their behavioural responses. This information will be valuable for future reference and can help refine your training methods.
By closely observing the calves' behaviour during their initial 24 hours with the electric fence, you can gain valuable insights into their learning process and make any necessary adjustments to your training approach. This period is critical for establishing the psychological barrier that will help contain and manage the calves effectively.
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Use flagging tape for increased visibility
Training calves to respect an electric fence is a psychological process that involves manipulating the cow psychology of the herd. Calves, lambs, and goat kids born on the ranch learn at a very early age not to go near the wire. Electric fences are psychological barriers that cattle respect through conditioning, not because they are physical barriers.
To train calves to respect electric fences, you can use flagging tape to increase visibility. This method is especially useful when turning calves out into a bigger pasture with a temporary fence. Here are some steps and tips to effectively use flagging tape for increased visibility during calf training:
- Choose the Right Flagging Tape: Select a bright and fade-resistant flagging tape that is specifically designed for electric fences. This tape is usually made of weatherproof polyvinyl chloride, ensuring durability in harsh outdoor conditions. The bright colour of the tape will help calves easily see and identify the fence.
- Install the Flagging Tape: Tie the flagging tape to the electric fence strands, spacing it evenly along the length of the fence. Make sure the tape is securely attached and visible from a distance.
- Combine with a Training Period: During the initial training phase, it is important to observe the calves' behaviour for the first hour and regularly check on them during the first 24 hours. This allows you to ensure they are encountering the fence and understanding its purpose.
- Use in Conjunction with Other Methods: Consider using the flagging tape in combination with other training methods. For example, placing buckets of grain along the outside of the fencing can help reinforce the calves' understanding of the fence's boundary.
- Ensure Calves Encounter the Fence: It is important that all calves encounter the electric fence during the training period. Once they experience the harmless "zap" or shock, they are more likely to respect the fence and avoid crossing it again.
- Adjust Voltage as Needed: Depending on the age and size of the calves, you may need to adjust the voltage of the electric fence. Consult with a livestock specialist or veterinarian to determine the appropriate voltage for effective training without causing harm.
- Regularly Inspect the Fence: Electric fences may require regular maintenance to ensure they remain functional and visible. Check the fence line periodically for any damage or wear and replace the flagging tape as needed to maintain its visibility.
By using flagging tape to increase the visibility of the electric fence, you can effectively train calves to respect the boundary. This method, combined with proper voltage settings and observation during the training period, will help ensure the calves understand and respect the electric fence as a psychological barrier.
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Train calves in a separate area first
Training calves to respect an electric fence is an important aspect of cattle management. Electric fences are a psychological barrier that works by manipulating cow psychology to create a mental fear of crossing the wire. Calves can be trained in a separate area first, before being introduced to the larger fields.
The first step is to set up a training pen or a small field with a two-strand or three-strand electric fence, depending on the voltage. The voltage should be greater than 4,500 V for calves. This allows the calves to get used to the fence in a controlled environment. The calves should be observed for the first hour and checked regularly during the first 24 hours.
To encourage the calves to respect the electric fence, set up the pen so that they have to pass through the hot wire to get from one thing they want to another, such as water or shade. This teaches them to avoid the wire. It is important to note that calves should not be trained using this method if they are very young, as they may not be able to learn this way.
Another method is to hang light wire with aluminium pie plates or flagging tape from the fence. This increases the visibility of the wire, especially in low light conditions. Once the calves learn to associate the wire with the electric shock, the plates or tape can be removed.
Training calves in a separate area first allows them to develop a healthy respect for electric fences before being introduced to larger fields. This process usually takes three to five days and helps to prevent calves from breaking through electric fences in the future.
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Frequently asked questions
Training calves to respect electric fences is a safe and controlled way to prevent them from breaking through the fence.
Electric fences are psychological barriers that work by manipulating cow psychology. Calves are trained to fear getting zapped by the electric wire, creating a formidable psychological barrier that restricts their movement.
The recommended training period for calves is three to five days. During this time, they should be allowed to encounter the electric fence and learn to respect it.
One technique is to set up a small corral or pen with a single strand of electric wire. Place food and water on opposite sides of the wire, forcing the calves to go around the wire to access what they need. Another technique is to hang light wire or flagging tape/string from the fence to increase visibility.
Yes, it is important to ensure that the voltage is appropriate for the age and size of the calves. Additionally, regular maintenance of the fence is necessary to keep it clear of weeds and other power-draining obstacles.
