Electric fencing for livestock

Electric fencing allows stocking density to be adjusted so that grazing pressure can be controlled. Provided it is well set-up and maintained, electric fencing can be very durable, as there is little, if any, physical contact with the fence line.

Electric fencing can be cost-effective and flexible. While it does not suit every farm, it is worth considering either as an alternative to conventional fencing, or as a tool to use alongside it.

Electric fencing can be useful for:

• Rotational grazing systems
• Strip grazing
• All-grass wintering (AGW)
• Grazing forage crops such as lucerne, red clover aftermaths and herbal leys
• Fencing off areas of the field such as wet areas where the mud snail (liver fluke host) may live
• Protecting an existing fence or hedge

A pulse of electric current is sent along the fence line from a ground energiser. When an animal makes contact with the fence, the circuit between the ground and the fence line is completed, sending a short, sharp but safe shock. This should be sufficient that the animal remembers it but will not cause it any long-term harm.

A good electric fence system requires a combination of components that all work efficiently together, including:

• An energiser
• A power source
• An earth system
• A conductor

There are three types of electric fencing: permanent electric, off conventional and temporary electric. Read on to decide which type of fencing best suits your system.

A good electric fence system requires a combination of components that all work efficiently together, including an energiser, a power source, an earth system, and a conductor.

Read our advice on the differing fencing methods for cattle and sheep. You will find information on health and safety, identifying faults and common pitfalls.

Training livestock to an electric fence can save time and hassle, especially for rotational grazing systems. Read our top tips for training cattle and sheep.