Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - Livestock
What are the advantages of electric fence over conventional
barrier fence?
If I use barbed wire, can I electrify it?
How do I use electric fence to contain bulls?
How does electric fence work with rotational grazing?
What are the advantages of electric fence over conventional
barrier fence?
Electric fencing costs less, is easier to install, requires less maintenance,
and can control livestock better than barbwire or other types of fencing. In
addition, livestock frequently are injured by barbwire and will damage barbed
or woven-wire fences by leaning on the fence.
Because livestock avoid contact with an electric fence, it will last longer
than other types of fence. Barbwire or woven-wire fences will last 7 - 12
years, while permanent, high tensile fences can last 20 - 40 years.
If I use barbed wire, can I electrify it?
Barbed wire is designed as a physical barrier, using barbs to deter animals.
Because of the barbs, there is a greater chance the animal can become entangled
in the wire. Electrified barbed wire could cause even more damage to the
animal. For a selection of safer poly wire and tape, refer to Zareba's
tape / wire / rope.
How do I use electric fence to contain bulls?
If normally kept segregated for breeding purposes, bulls or other aggressive
livestock may become highly motivated to escape confinement, especially when
nearby cows are in heat.
To contain bulls, maintain 3,000 - 4,000 volts on the fence line. Depending on
vegetation and the length of the fence a low impedance fence controller is
recommended. Five to six wires are best. For more aggressive animals, you want
the electrified fence to deliver a more intense shock to discourage them from
going near the fence again.
How does electric fence work with rotational grazing?
Electric fencing is the perfect solution for containing animals on a short-term
or temporary basis, as in rotational grazing. The lightweight mobility of
portable electric fencing is ideal for frequently moving livestock to different
sections of pasture.
Zareba Systems has all the components needed to create a rotational grazing
system including: step-in posts,
poly wire and poly tape,
reels and fence controllers.
Because pastures frequently aren't located near an AC power source, we
recommend using a low impedance battery-
or solar-powered fence controller.
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