Sheep and Goat Production

Sheep and Goat Production

Discussing current topics in Ontario sheep and goat production

All posts tagged fencing

Predation Prevention Tools for a Goat Herd

Posted on Author Jillian CraigPosted in Goats, Predation

When faced with the on-going threat of predation to your herd some proactive steps can be implemented. It should be noted that even with the best prevention strategies in place, predation can and/or will still occur. When considering prevention practices, it is important to consider the level of predation (for example, the dollar value of loss), time of year, location, past history, cost of each predation prevention strategy, and the amount of protection offered.   There are different options for predation prevention strategies with some being more effective than others. Options include, but are not limited to, fencing, livestock guardian animals, hunting, trapping, night time enclosures and deterrents (lights, radio, bells, etc.). It should be noted that night time enclosures…

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Selecting an Energizer for Your Electric Fence

Posted on Author Christine O'Reilly, OMAFRA Forage & Grazing SpecialistPosted in Forage, Predation1 Reply

Key points: The energizer (also called a fencer) is the cornerstone of any electric fence. Selecting the right one for your farm is crucial to making an electric fence work for you. Understanding electricity and all the jargon that goes with it can be a challenge. Luckily, thinking about water is often a great way to imagine electricity, so I’m going to draw comparisons between electricity and water throughout this article. The first step in selecting an energizer is to determine your power source. If the fence is close enough, an energizer that plugs into the hydro is often the cheapest and easiest solution. As the fence gets further away from an outlet, running wires becomes expensive and other power…

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Predation: Fencing and Resources

Posted on Author Jillian CraigPosted in PredationLeave a Reply

Fencing is one preventative measure available in trying to reduce predation to flocks. There are a few different fencing options available whether building a new fence or adding to an existing fence. A good fence can be utilized in conjunction with other predator prevention strategies (such as livestock guard animals, deterrents, etc).  It is important to note that no fence will completely eliminate predation from occurring. The OMAFRA Factsheet entitled: Fencing Options for Predator Control includes information on electric fences, net-wire fences, electric net fencing as well as a comparison of cost and life expectancy for the three types of fences. Some other resources include: Sheep Management Practices Can Influence Predation Program Guidelines: Ontario Wildlife Damage Compensation Program