Setting Up Electric Chicken Fences: A Portable Solution

Electric fencing is an effective way to keep chickens in a given area and protect them from predators. Setting up a movable electric fence for chickens involves considerations such as choosing the right type of fencing, ensuring proper installation, and taking safety precautions. The fence should be placed strategically, with charged wires at a sufficient height to protect against specific predators in the area. Maintenance is required, especially during grass-growing seasons, and it's important to ensure the fence is working properly to avoid any incidents with humans or animals. Electric chicken fencing can be a cost-effective solution, with options for temporary or permanent setups, and it offers flexibility in terms of mobility and protection for chicken flocks.

Electric fence netting

When choosing electric fence netting, you can opt for a kit that includes everything you need, such as netting, an energizer, and accessories. The energizer is crucial to ensuring the fence is effective, and it's recommended to choose a powerful AC-powered energizer to keep adequate voltage on the fence. Some energizers have built-in voltmeters so you can easily check the voltage.

When setting up the netting, it's important to consider the height of the wires. Typically, the bottom wire should be close to the ground, about 4" to 5" off the ground, to prevent small predators from crawling under. If you use a second wire, place it about 10" off the ground. This setup will deter foxes, bobcats, raccoons, dogs, and coyotes.

It's also essential to consider the durability of the netting. While some customers report that their electric fence netting is well-made and sturdy, others have experienced issues with sagging and posts breaking. If you plan to move the fence frequently, look for temporary fencing options that are lightweight and easy to relocate.

Overall, electric fence netting is a cost-effective way to contain your chickens and protect them from predators. With proper setup and maintenance, it can be a safe and reliable solution for your poultry enclosure.

Cost and materials

The cost of setting up a movable electric fence for your chickens will depend on the type of fence you choose and the materials required.

For a basic electric fence, you can expect to pay around $150 to $200 for 50 yards of fencing, not including the cost of a charging unit, which would be around the same price. If you want to add electric mesh to an existing gate, this will also incur additional costs.

If you require top netting to prevent your chickens from flying over, this will increase the overall cost of your fencing. Netting is also more difficult to set up around trees, requiring you to split and stitch the net.

For a temporary fencing option that can be moved frequently, you may want to consider electric poultry netting. This option includes netting, a fence charger, a grounding rod, a gate handle kit, and a voltmeter fence tester. The cost of these items will vary depending on the brand and quality you choose.

To energize your electric fence, you will need a fence charger. While solar panels and batteries are an option, a powerful AC-powered energizer is recommended. The Parmak Super Energizer 5 is a popular choice for those seeking a powerful charger.

Step-in fence posts are another important component of your electric chicken fence, as they help to ensure the wires are at the correct height and prevent predators and chickens from getting past them. These posts are relatively inexpensive, costing only a few dollars each.

In addition to the cost of materials, you may also need to consider the cost of tools required for installation and any maintenance or repairs that may be needed over time.

Height and mesh size

When setting up an electric fence for chickens, it is important to consider the height and mesh size to ensure the safety of your flock.

Firstly, the height of the fence is crucial. While chickens can only fly short distances due to their size, they can easily cross a 4-foot-high fence if motivated. Therefore, it is recommended to install fencing that is at least 6 feet high to prevent short flights and keep your chickens contained.

If you are using an electric fence with just one or two wires, the height of the wires is also important. In a one-wire setup, the wire should be about 5 inches off the ground. If you use a second wire, place it about 10 inches off the ground. This low height may seem surprising, but it is effective because predators tend to keep low to the ground when they are sneaking around, and many are not very large.

When it comes to mesh size, a smaller mesh design is recommended. For example, a hexagonal fence with small mesh holes can provide a more humane way to protect your flock while also offering additional security against harsh weather and predators.

The weight of the wire is also a factor to consider. Heavy galvanized wire is recommended as it is durable and can withstand the use of a weed eater to keep the fenceline clear without breaking.

Additionally, if you intend to move your electric fence frequently, choose a temporary fence option. These fences are easier to handle and require less maintenance than semi-permanent or permanent fences.

Keeping chickens in vs. keeping predators out

Electric fencing is a cheap and effective way to keep chickens in and predators out. It is easy to set up and safe around people and pets. Basic electric fencing kits can range from $180 to $600. A portable electric fence design is ideal if you plan on moving your chickens from one location to another.

The fence should be sturdy and at least six feet tall. For locations where the fence will not be moved often or very far, a 48" tall electric net fence is recommended. A 42" net is more suitable for heavy, non-flying birds. If you are looking for something cheaper and easier to set up, two strands of inexpensive aluminum fence wire held up with step-in fence posts will do the trick.

To prevent predators from digging under the fence, bury fencing at least 1 foot into the ground. An outward overhang fence design or free-spinning PVC pipe on a tight wire at the top of the fence can prevent some predators, like coyotes, from climbing over. For extra security, cover the run with a roof or hardware cloth to protect against flying and climbing predators.

It is important to know what predators you are dealing with. For example, predator birds like owls are sound-sensitive, so noise-making devices can be used to scare them off. Raccoons, coyotes, bobcats, and dogs are common chicken predators, and electric fences are effective against them. However, it is important to note that there is no silver bullet that will stop all predators, and keeping poultry in crowded pens creates an unhealthy environment.

Setting up for specific predators

Electric fencing is a great way to keep predators away from your chickens. The type of electric fence you'll need will depend on the predators in your area. Here are some tips for setting up your electric fence to protect your chickens from specific predators:

Aerial Predators

Birds of prey, such as owls, eagles, and hawks, can be a threat to your chickens. To deter these aerial predators, set up a narrow run for your chickens, making it difficult for the birds to dive down and grab them. You can also crisscross fishing line or reflective string across the top of the fence for added protection.

Cougars, Mountain Lions, and Bobcats

These predators can jump high, so it's best to use taller netting. Angle the net outward so that when they get a shock, they will look up and see that the fence is above them, deterring them from jumping over.

Foxes, Raccoons, and Bobcats

A simple electric fence with one or two wires can effectively keep these predators out of your chicken yard. Place the first wire about 5 inches off the ground and the second wire about 10 inches off the ground. These predators tend to keep low to the ground when they're sneaking around, so such low wires will deter them.

Coyotes

Coyotes can be deterred by even a single-wire electric fence. However, to protect your chickens from coyotes, it's essential to have a powerful fence charger that can maintain adequate voltage.

Cats

Cats can be a challenge as they can climb trees and jump into the pen. To prevent this, keep your fences away from trees and other structures that cats can use to access the pen.

Weasels

An electric fence will keep weasels out as long as getting to the chickens requires contact with the fence for more than a split second, and the fence charger delivers a strong enough shock.

Dogs

Dogs can be deterred by a simple one-wire electric fence. Additionally, woven tape placed at about 18 inches can also work to keep dogs out.

Remember, the effectiveness of your electric fence also depends on maintaining it properly and ensuring it has enough power.

Frequently asked questions