Semi OT: Electric fences

 


Just wondering what your experiences have been with electric fences?

I recently set up my own electric fence in one paddock, for a mix of
creatures ranging from chooks (yes, chooks!) to sheep and goats. Years
ago I managed an avocado farm, which also ran some cattle - I used to
maintain that electric fence, so have some previous basic experience
with them, besides having a good grounding (no pun intended) in
electronics.

Anyway, to cut a long story short - I've found both fences to be largely
ineffective at keeping creatures either in or out.

The fence does actually work - it sure hurts like hell when I touch the
fence... much moreso than the previous cattle fence I mentioned.

I'm certain its set up properly, I'm running the fence parallel to the
creek, with a copper earth stake in moist ground, plus alternating
live/earth wires on the insulated posts (no less than 8 strands). And
yet - the dog, chooks, sheep and goat couldn't give a rat's bum about
the fence.

I've given up on mine and putting up a proper wire fence. My trees can't
take much more of the gourmet goats... Also beginning to dawn on my why
there are so many second hand units advertised...

So, back to my question: I'd like to hear of your experiences with
electric fences - both pro and con.



Cheers.

 

 

Wet the ground around it to ensure a good earth and see if that fixes things.

 

rainman@mailinator.com wrote:

I use them extensively for horses and cattle and a single wire about 60cm
high works fine day or night, wet or dry.  Once they get used to it I only
turn the power on if there is a strong motivation for them to challenge it.

I have no experience with goats but I know an old arab proverb, "If you have
no troubles get a goat".


David

 

On Thu, 11 Feb 2010 19:52:56 +1100, David Hare-Scott wrote:


And you've got jonno ;-P
Do they equate?
Keep smiling
anm

 

wrote:
  

The English have a similar saying.

"If you have no troubles get a wife".