Foxes and livestock are rarely a good combination – be that sheep, chickens or pet rabbits. It is wise to use fox deterrents for chickens, sheep or rabbits in order to protect them from any potential disasters. The challenge when it comes to electric fencing for foxes is their intelligence. They’re incredibly adaptive to their environment, and they won’t let a simple little fence get in their way. That’s why you need effective fox deterrent fencing to protect your livestock.
What is a good fox deterrent?
If a fox puts its mind to get into an area where there is a suitable food source – especially if it’s hungry – there aren’t many ways to stop it. They can climb. They can dig. They can work out ways to get through most obstacles, and they’re determined enough to try. So, you need something that will deter them from even trying in the first place, electric fencing and netting are the perfect option.
Electric fencing for foxes
Our standard electric fencing is extremely portable and easy to set-up, so you can create an electric fence anywhere you like. It’s easy to carry into distant fields and can be powered by batteries or small solar panels if you need to set it up somewhere away from a mains connection. It’s great for large areas like paddocks if you want to protect sheep or other livestock from fox attacks. The trick to making sure an electric fence is an effective deterrent against foxes is to have both a low bottom line and a high-top line. This way a fox will get a shock if they investigate on the ground, and a shock if they try to climb over the top. Any shocks foxes receive are minor and designed to make them think twice about coming back. They won’t harm the animals.
Electric netting for foxes
If you want to provide more comprehensive protection against foxes, then electrified netting is often the best choice. With a wire mesh covering an entire coop or rabbit hutch, there’s no way a fox can get through without getting shocked. Electric netting can also be used around a small sheep paddock. If a fox tries to go through or over, they will get shocked. For larger areas, electric netting can prove a costly option, but if you have wire mesh in place already, you could electrify that with the right equipment.
For maximum protection, you can combine both! There are lots of options to choose from. See which fox deterrent fence might be best for you here.
What are electric fences for foxes?
Electric fences for foxes are specially designed barriers that use electric shocks to deter and prevent foxes from entering or exiting a specific area. These fences are typically made up of electrified wires or tapes, supported by electric fence posts, and connected to an electtric fence energiser or power source. The electric shock delivered by the fence acts as a deterrent to keep foxes away, minimizing the potential for damage or intrusion.
The advantages of an electric fence for foxes
Electric fences offer several advantages when it comes to deterring foxes:
- Effective deterrence: Electric fences provide a reliable and effective means of deterring foxes from entering a protected area. The electric shock they deliver acts as a powerful deterrent, training foxes to avoid the fenced-off area.
- Non-lethal option: Electric fences are a humane alternative to lethal methods of fox control. They discourage foxes without causing permanent harm or injury.
- Customizable and adaptable: Electric fences can be tailored to suit specific needs and areas. They can be easily adjusted and extended to cover larger spaces or modified to fit different shapes and layouts.
- Low maintenance: Once installed, electric fences require minimal maintenance. Regular checks of the system and occasional battery or energizer replacement are typically the only maintenance tasks needed.
- Cost-effective: Compared to other methods of fox control, electric fences are generally cost-effective in the long run. They provide a long-lasting solution that can be used repeatedly without significant additional expenses.
How do electric fences for foxes work?
Electric fences for foxes operate by using a mild electric shock to create an unpleasant experience for the fox, effectively conditioning them to avoid the fenced area. The fence consists of electrified wires or tapes that emit a pulse of electric current when touched. The energizer or power source supplies the electric current to the electric fence wire or electric fence tape, and the shock is delivered upon contact with the fox. The shock is safe and non-lethal but acts as a strong deterrent.
For which animals are electric fences for foxes suitable?
Electric fences for foxes are specifically designed to deter foxes, making them suitable for protecting areas against fox intrusion. While primarily intended for fox control, these fences can also be effective at deterring other small to medium-sized mammals, such as raccoons, rabbits, or stray cats.
Tips for determining the best electric fence for foxes
When choosing an electric fence for foxes, consider the following factors:
- Quality and durability: Opt for high-quality materials that are designed to withstand outdoor conditions and provide long-term durability.
- Power source: Decide between battery-powered or mains-powered energizers, considering factors like accessibility to power outlets and the need for portability.
- Fence design: Select a fence design that suits your specific needs, whether it's a permanent or temporary installation, the area you need to protect, and any potential obstacles.
- Safety features: Look for fences with features like low-impedance technology, which ensures consistent shock delivery, and built-in safety mechanisms to prevent electrical issues.
- Ease of installation: Choose a fence that is relatively easy to install, preferably with clear instructions and necessary mounting hardware included.
How do you install and use an electric fence for foxes?
Here is a general overview of the installation and usage process for an electric fence for foxes:
- Plan the fence layout: Determine the area you want to protect and mark out the perimeter. Consider any specific requirements, such as gate access points or areas prone to fox activity.
- Install fence posts: Set up fence posts at regular intervals along the marked perimeter using appropriate tools or equipment.
- Mount wires or tapes: Attach the electrified wires or tapes to the fence posts, ensuring they are taut and properly secured. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for wire spacing and height.
- Install the energizer: Connect the energizer to the fence wires or tapes according to the manufacturer's instructions. If using a battery-powered energizer, ensure the batteries are properly installed and functional.
- Test the system: Before activating the fence, test it to ensure it is functioning correctly and delivering an adequate shock. Follow safety precautions and use specialized testing equipment if necessary.
- Activate the fence: Once everything is properly installed and tested, activate the fence by turning on the energizer. Regularly monitor the fence to ensure its ongoing effectiveness.
- Maintain the system: Periodically check the fence for damage, vegetation interference, or issues with the energizer. Replace batteries or address any problems promptly to maintain the fence's functionality.
Pay attention to this when buying an electric fence for foxes
When purchasing an electric fence for foxes, consider the following:
- Quality and reliability: Choose a reputable brand or supplier to ensure you're getting a high-quality and reliable product.
- Compliance with regulations: Verify that the electric fence complies with relevant local regulations and standards regarding safety and animal welfare.
- Warranty and customer support: Check if the fence comes with a warranty and reliable customer support to address any potential issues or concerns.
- Reviews and recommendations: Read customer reviews and seek recommendations from trusted sources to gain insights into the fence's performance and durability.
- Price and value: Compare prices and consider the overall value of the fence, taking into account its features, durability, and effectiveness.
Requirements for an electric fence for foxes
When installing an electric fence for foxes, consider the following requirements:
- Sufficient power: Ensure that the energizer provides enough power to deliver an effective shock across the desired fence length and height.
- Proper grounding: Establish a solid grounding system for the energizer to ensure its optimal performance and shock delivery.
- Height and wire spacing: Follow the recommended height and wire spacing guidelines to create an effective deterrent barrier for foxes.
- Regular maintenance: Commit to regular maintenance, including checking the fence, wires, and energizer for any issues, and promptly addressing them to maintain the fence's functionality.
- Safety precautions: Take necessary safety precautions during installation and usage, such as using insulated gloves and tools, and keeping children and pets away from the electrified area.
What types of electric fences for foxes are there?
Several types of electric fences are suitable for fox deterrence, including:
- Traditional wire fences: These fences consist of electrified wires, usually made of stainless steel or aluminum, supported by fence posts. They are versatile and can be used in various configurations.
- Electric tape fences: Electric tape fences use wide, flat tapes made of electrically conductive material. They provide high visibility and can be a good option for deterring foxes.
- Netting fences: Netting fences are made of electrified netting that can be easily installed and moved. They are particularly useful for protecting gardens or specific areas from foxes.
- Electric mesh fences: Electric mesh fences feature small grids or squares made of electrified wire. They offer a more robust barrier and can be effective for fox deterrence.
- Portable electric fences: These fences are designed for temporary use and are easily transported. They are suitable for situations where temporary fox control is required, such as during outdoor events or seasonal agricultural activities.
When choosing the type of electric fence, consider factors such as the area to be protected, desired visibility, ease of installation, and specific requirements for deterring foxes effectively.
