Best Electric Fence For Chickens (2024 Update)
Keeping chickens safe and secure is a top priority for any backyard flock owner. An electric fence can be an effective way to protect chickens from predators and contain them in their coop and run area. When shopping for the best electric fence for chickens, there are several factors to consider to ensure you select the right option for your flock and property.
First, examine the acreage you need to enclose and opt for a permanent or portable, wireless system accordingly. Measure boundary areas and account for any landscape features like slopes or vegetation that may impact placement. Also, think about the number of chickens and breeds you have, as larger fowl may require a higher voltage or more powerful energizer.
The style of netting or wire is also key – you’ll want an option with small enough gaps so birds and predators can’t squeeze through. And for maximum visibility, seek out wire that’s electrified on both sides. Additional aspects like the energizer’s joule rating, warranty length, and ease of installation are also worth comparing before making a final purchase.
Installing and using an electric poultry fence demands safety precautions too. Be sure to put up warning signs for humans and animals. It’s also smart to regularly test fence voltage and maintain the system per the manufacturer’s directions. With the right electric fence choice and attentive upkeep, you can give your flock the protection they need while keeping them securely contained.
10 Best Electric Fence For Chickens
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Ideal for enclosing poultry and livestock, creating a secure electric netting fence for easy setup and portability.
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Ideal for containing and protecting sheep and goats in a portable manner using an electric fence net and step-in posts.
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Ideal for enclosing and protecting chickens and other poultry on small farms, homesteads, and backyards with an electric fence.
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Ideal for electrically fencing in and protecting poultry or other small animals in backyard, homestead, ranch, or farm areas.
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5
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Ideal for keeping poultry safe and contained on small to medium-sized properties.
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6
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The product is ideal for creating an electric fence for poultry or livestock in backyards, homesteads, ranches, or farms.
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7
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Ideal for creating portable enclosures for poultry or other small animals.
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8
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This product is ideal for electric chicken fencing in backyards, homesteads, farms, and ranches.
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9
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This product is ideal for containing chickens or other small animals in a secure area with an easily movable fence.
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10
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This product is ideal for creating a reliable and efficient net fence setup for large areas, powered by solar energy.
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1. Rentacoop Poultry Netting Electric Fence (48" H X 168' L)
If you're looking for a reliable and easy way to keep your animals safe from unwanted predators, this electric netting fence is a great solution. This product is designed to keep predators and other unwanted animals out, giving you peace of mind that your animals are protected.
Please note that this energizer does not come included with the product and is required for it to work. The manufacturer recommends using 1/4 Joules of energy per every 168' roll and low or wide impedance intermittent pulse energizers. It is important to avoid using continuous current energizers with electric netting.
Setting up this electric netting fence is quick and easy, with posts pre-fastened to the fence and stakes placed every 12 feet. The kit also includes four guy-lines which prevent the fence from sagging. This product has been designed to ensure that the fence does not sag, with stakes every 12 feet, four guy-lines, and double spiked FRP posts providing the necessary support.
To keep your electric netting fence working effectively, the manufacturer recommends trimming grass and vegetation along the line of the fence. When vegetation touches the horizontal wires of the fence, the current is lowered, and if enough vegetation is touching the fence, it will render the fence useless. The manufacturer also recommends purchasing a fence tester and keeping your fence above 3000 Volts to prevent predators.
2. Farmily Portable Electric Fencing Net For Sheep And Goat With Step-In Fence Post, 35"x164', Green …
This livestock fence is an excellent choice for owners of goats, sheep, and other similar animals. Its design allows for easy assembly and disassembly, making it a more convenient option than traditional electric fences. The fence's bright green color ensures high visibility, and it comes with 14 white step-in fiberglass posts for added stability. Measuring at 35 inches in height and 164 feet in length, this fence provides ample space for livestock to graze and roam.
It's important to note that, regardless of the fence charger's advertised strength, any weeds or grass that come into contact with the wires can reduce voltage and potentially render the fence less effective. In some cases, it could even cause a fire. Therefore, it's essential to monitor the fence regularly and clear any vegetation that may interfere with its performance.
3. Electric Fence For Happy Chickens!
If you're a poultry enthusiast, you know how important it is to provide a safe and secure environment for your feathered friends to free range. And that's where the Electric Netting comes into play. This netting is designed to provide a safe area for your poultry to free range, while keeping predators at bay.
One of the benefits of free range poultry is that they tend to be healthier, better fed, and happier. The Electric Netting allows your birds to roam around and forage for food, which is essential for their well-being. Plus, it gives them the opportunity to stretch their wings and enjoy the great outdoors.
The Electric Netting is also an effective deterrent for a variety of predators, including mink, raccoons, rabbits, foxes, coyotes, skunks, and others. The netting is designed to keep these predators out, while allowing your poultry to move about freely.
Setting up the Electric Netting is a breeze and can be done in just a few minutes. The netting can also be easily moved to rotate grazing, which is important for maintaining healthy pasture. With this product, you can create an enclosure of up to 400 square feet. And the best part? The Electric Netting does not need to come together at the ends, and can be installed in any configuration.
It's important to note that an energizer is required for this product to be effective. This will ensure that the netting is properly charged and capable of deterring predators. With the Electric Netting, you can rest assured that your poultry will be safe and secure while enjoying the benefits of free ranging.
4. Solar-Powered Poultry Fencing Kit – Starkline
The 48" x 164' Starkline Premium Electric Poultry Netting with S400 Solar Energizer, Grounding Rod, Fence Tester, Connectors, and Accessories is an exceptional all-in-one kit that provides everything you need to create a 40' x 40' electrified enclosure. This kit is perfect for DIY enthusiasts, homesteaders, and urban homeowners with backyard chickens who want to safeguard their poultry.
Setting up this kit is fast and easy, and it can be completed in under 45 minutes. The Starkline Electric Netting is specifically designed for chickens, ducks, geese, and other poultry. However, it is highly effective for all other types of livestock as well.
The kit includes 16 solid fiberglass posts that come with galvanized double spiked stakes. Unlike our competitors who use flimsy PVC posts that bend and sag, our fiberglass posts are sturdy and reliable.
The S400 Solar Energizer that comes with the kit easily mounts to any T-Post or U-Post. Designed to energize one 164' Electric Poultry Net, the S400 Solar Energizer is an efficient and eco-friendly way to power your poultry netting.
In addition to the netting and energizer, the kit also includes a grounding rod, fence tester, connectors, and other essential accessories. With this all-in-one kit, you can expect a reliable and effective electric poultry netting system that keeps your poultry safe and secure.
5. Premier Enhanced 42" Electric Poultry Net Fence, Green/black, 12/42/3eg
This electric netting fence is an efficient and easy-to-install solution to protect your poultry, ducks, and small livestock from predators such as foxes, coyotes, dogs, and raccoons. It has been designed to be properly energized in order to achieve optimal results – please note that the energizer is not included with the product.
For effective operation, it is recommended to use approximately 0.25 joule of energizer per roll of fence, using only low or wide impedance intermittent pulse energizers. It is important to avoid continuous current energizers with electric netting, as this may lead to suboptimal results. To ensure the best performance, we recommend using a Premier Solar or AC/DC energizer that fits your specific needs.
The fence comes complete with PVC posts pre-fitted into the fence at 10-foot intervals with a 6-inch spike at the bottom. For added support, we strongly recommend using non-conductive support posts at corners and ends. You can find these posts on Amazon, under the name of Premier 42" FiberTuff posts.
Additionally, multiple rolls of netting are easily clipped together by a power clip at the end of the net, making it a versatile and customizable solution for your specific needs.
6. Energized Poultry Netting – All-In-One Kit
The Starkline Premium Electric Poultry Netting with .8J AC Energizer, Grounding Rod, Fence Tester, Connectors, and Accessories is an all-in-one kit that provides everything needed to create a 40' x 40' electrified enclosure. This product measures 48" x 164', which is more than enough space to accommodate chickens, ducks, geese, and other poultry. However, it is also highly effective for all types of livestock.
One of the benefits of this product is its speed and ease of setup. The all-in-one kit is designed to be set up in under 45 minutes, making it a convenient option for farmers and homesteaders who need to quickly install an electrified enclosure.
The kit includes 16 solid fiberglass posts with galvanized double spiked stakes, which are far superior to the flimsy PVC posts used by competitors. The solid fiberglass posts are durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions while keeping the netting in place.
Another great feature of the Starkline Premium Electric Poultry Netting is the included SL-8 Energizer. This energizer is capable of powering up to 500' (3 full size nets) of Starkline Poultry Netting. It is a reliable and efficient energizer that ensures your livestock stays secure within the enclosure.
The product also comes with a grounding rod, fence tester, connectors, and other accessories that are necessary for proper installation. This ensures that your enclosure is set up correctly and operates at maximum efficiency.
7. Premier Poultrynet Plus – White, Double Spike, 48" H X 100'l
The PoultryNet Plus is a complete, electrifiable, prefabricated portable mesh fence perfect for keeping in poultry, sheep, goats, cattle and guard dogs while keeping out deer, bear, raccoons, skunks, rabbits, foxes, coyotes and stray dogs.
This fence has built-in posts every 6.8ft, which is closer together than the standard PoultryNet, making it more versatile and less likely to sag. The strong plastic struts further reduce sagging between posts. Multiple rolls of this fence can also be connected together for larger areas.
For optimal performance, Premier recommends using non-conductive support posts for ends, corners and major directional changes. These support posts, such as the Premier 48" FiberTuff posts available on Amazon, are preferred over guy-lines at fence corners as they do not need to be removed when mowing and trimming.
It is important to note that the fence must be properly energized to be effective, and the energizer is not included in the package. Premier recommends approximately .25 joule of energizer per roll of fence, and to use only low or wide impedance intermittent pulse energizers. It is also important to avoid using continuous current energizers with electric netting.
To power the fence, Premier recommends using a Premier Solar or AC/DC energizer that fits your specific needs for optimum results.
8. Starkline Electric Chicken Fencing – 164ft Roll
Introducing the 42 inch x 164 foot electric netting electric fence system, an efficient and hassle-free solution for poultry farmers. This netting system requires no assembly, making it a breeze to use right out of the box.
The system includes 15 preinstalled PVC posts, each with galvanized double-spiked stakes for added durability and strength. The mesh is composed of 11 horizontal strands, with 10 of them being conductive, and vertical struts evenly spaced every 3 inches. This design ensures that your chickens, ducks, geese, and other poultry are kept safe and secure from outside predators.
The mesh is composed of 12 horizontal strands, with vertical strands evenly spaced every 3 inches to prevent poultry from escaping. The Starkline Electric Poultry Netting arrives 100% assembled, so all you need to do is open the box, unroll the fence, and stand it up!
While PVC posts are the industry standard, they may not be as high-quality as the fiberglass posts found on many other Starkline nets. Therefore, if your pasture has dips, hills, or difficult terrain, it is recommended to purchase additional fiberglass posts from their Amazon storefront.
9. Premier Poultrynet Plus Kit – Energized & Portable.
This package offers a complete solution for temporary poultry fencing, whether in the backyard or on the pasture. The kit includes a 100-foot roll of 48-inch PoultryNet Plus double spiked electric netting in white and black, 4 FiberTuff support posts measuring 48 inches each, SolarStop 80 with a ground rod, wiring harness, and digital fence tester.
The PoultryNet Plus electric netting is designed to contain and control the movement of chickens, ducks, and other poultry on a daily or weekly basis. It can also be used for other livestock such as sheep and goats. The double spikes ensure the stability of the netting on the ground.
This package is an effective solution to prevent predators such as raccoons, coyotes, foxes, dogs, and other animals from killing poultry. The electric fence is built to ensure the safety of the poultry while they are contained.
The kit comes with a two-year warranty for energizers and solar panels that covers lightning damage and defective parts or workmanship, while the batteries are covered by a 30-day warranty. It is important to note that the fence must be properly energized to be effective.
10. Permanet Plus Solar Fence Starter Kit
The PermaNet poultry fence is a versatile and effective solution for keeping all types of poultry safe and secure. It can also be utilized as a perimeter fence to keep small critters and deer out of gardens, fruit orchards, and tree plantings. This fence is suitable for use with sheep, goats, and other livestock as well.
The mesh portion of the PermaNet is identical to that of the PoultryNet, but it boasts stronger, larger posts that come equipped with longer, larger steel ground spikes. This fence is designed to resist sagging and withstand the harsh effects of wind, rain, ice, and snow much better than traditional netting.
The starter kit includes all the essential components to fence a small flock of birds, making it a convenient and cost-effective option for individuals new to poultry farming. The PermaNet fencing is available in two colors, white and green, to suit different preferences. The white option is highly visible to both humans and animals, while the green option blends in with the surroundings.
The PermaNet fencing system is durable, easy to install, and provides reliable protection for your flock or livestock. It is a wise investment for anyone looking to keep their animals safe and secure.
Best Electric Fence For Chickens FAQs
Are there any safety concerns when using an electric fence for chickens?
Yes, there are safety concerns when using an electric fence for chickens. Electric fences can deliver a shock to anyone or anything that comes into contact with them, including chickens, humans, and other animals. While the shock is not typically dangerous, it can be painful and cause injury, particularly if the person or animal is not in good health or has a pre-existing medical condition.
To minimize the risk of injury, it's important to follow proper installation and safety guidelines when using an electric fence for chickens. This includes using a low voltage charger, grounding the fence properly, and ensuring that the wires are not broken or damaged. It's also important to supervise chickens closely when they are near the fence and to keep the fence away from any areas where children or other animals may come into contact with it.
Overall, while electric fences can be an effective way to keep chickens safe and contained, it's important to use them responsibly and with caution to avoid any potential safety risks.
Can an electric fence for chickens be used with other animals?
Yes, an electric fence designed for chickens can be used with other animals as well. Electric fences are versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes, including keeping livestock contained and protecting crops from wildlife. However, it is important to ensure that the fence is appropriate for the specific animals being contained or deterred.
For example, a fence designed for chickens may not be strong enough to contain larger animals such as cows or horses. Additionally, some animals may require a higher voltage to be effectively deterred, while others may be more sensitive to electric shocks and require a lower voltage.
It is also important to consider the placement and design of the fence to ensure that it is effective and safe. The fence should be properly grounded and installed at the appropriate height and distance from other objects to prevent animals from jumping over or getting tangled in the wires.
In summary, while an electric fence designed for chickens can be used with other animals, it is important to ensure that the fence is appropriate for the specific animals being contained or deterred and is installed properly to ensure effectiveness and safety.
How much does it cost to install an electric fence for chickens?
The cost of installing an electric fence for chickens depends on various factors such as the size of the area you want to fence, the type of electric fence you want to install, and the cost of labor in your area. On average, the cost of installation can range from $300 to $1000.
The first step in determining the cost is to measure the area you want to fence. This will give you an idea of how much wire, posts, and other materials you will need. The cost of materials will vary depending on the quality and brand you choose.
The next step is to decide on the type of electric fence you want to install. There are different types of electric fences such as solar-powered, battery-powered, and plug-in. Each type has its own cost and benefits.
Lastly, you need to factor in the cost of labor if you plan to hire a professional to install the electric fence. The cost of labor can vary depending on your location and the complexity of the installation.
Overall, the cost of installing an electric fence for chickens can vary, but it is an investment that will keep your chickens safe and secure.
How much voltage should an electric fence for chickens have?
The voltage required for an electric fence for chickens depends on various factors such as the type of poultry, their behavior, and the level of security required. However, most experts recommend a minimum of 2,000 volts of electricity for an electric fence to be effective in keeping chickens safe and secure. It is important to note that the voltage should be high enough to deter predators from attempting to penetrate the fence, but not too high that it causes harm to the chickens.
Additionally, it is essential to ensure that the fence is properly installed and maintained to guarantee its effectiveness. This includes making sure the wires are correctly spaced, the battery or power supply is functioning correctly, and the fence is free from vegetation and debris that can interfere with its operation. Moreover, it is crucial to check the fence regularly to ensure that it is working correctly and that there are no damages or defects that can compromise its efficiency.
How often should an electric fence for chickens be checked for damage?
Regularly checking an electric fence for damage is crucial to ensure the safety of your chickens and the effectiveness of the fence. The frequency of the checks depends on various factors, including the age and condition of the fence, the weather conditions, and the type of predators in the area.
As a general rule, it's recommended to inspect the fence at least once a week. During the inspection, walk along the fence and check for any broken wires, loose connections, or damage to the insulators. If you notice any issues, make repairs immediately to prevent predators from getting in and harming your birds.
Additionally, it's a good idea to do a more thorough inspection of the fence every three to six months. This includes checking the voltage with a tester and ensuring that the grounding system is working correctly.
Remember, a well-maintained electric fence is a vital tool in protecting your chickens from predators. So, make it a habit to check the fence regularly and fix any issues promptly.
How tall should an electric fence for chickens be?
The height of an electric fence for chickens depends on several factors. The primary objective of an electric fence for chickens is to keep them contained and protected from predators. Therefore, the height of the fence should be high enough to deter predators from jumping over it and low enough to prevent chickens from flying over it.
In general, a fence that is 4-5 feet high is adequate for most chicken breeds. However, it's essential to consider the breed of chicken you're dealing with as some breeds can jump higher than others. Additionally, if you have predators such as foxes, raccoons, or coyotes in your area, you may need to make the fence higher or add additional deterrents like barbed wire or netting.
It's also crucial to ensure that the fence is properly grounded and that the voltage is sufficient to deter predators. Proper maintenance of the fence is necessary to ensure that it's always functioning correctly. Overall, the height of the electric fence for chickens should be determined by the breed of chicken and the predators in your area.
Should an electric fence for chickens be single or double-sided?
When it comes to installing an electric fence for chickens, the decision of whether to use a single or double-sided fence depends on several factors.
A single-sided fence is the most common type used for chicken coops. It is installed on the outside of the coop to keep predators such as foxes, raccoons, and coyotes from getting in. This type of fence is effective as long as the predators are not able to dig under or climb over the fence.
On the other hand, a double-sided electric fence is more effective in keeping predators out as it creates a physical barrier on both sides of the fence. This type of fence is especially useful for larger farms where predators are more persistent. However, it can be more expensive to install and maintain.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to use a single or double-sided electric fence for chickens depends on the size of the coop, the type of predators in the area, and the budget for the fencing. It is important to ensure that the fence is installed correctly and that the chickens are safe from predators.
What are the best brands of electric fence for chickens?
When it comes to protecting your chickens from predators, electric fences can be a great solution. There are several brands of electric fences available in the market, each with its own unique features and benefits. Some of the best brands of electric fence for chickens are Premier 1 Supplies, Zareba Systems, and Fi-Shock.
Premier 1 Supplies is known for its high-quality electric fencing products, including poultry netting and energizers. Their electric fencing for chickens is durable, easy to install, and highly effective in keeping predators out.
Zareba Systems is another popular brand that offers a wide range of electric fencing products, including electric fence controllers, wires, and poly tape. Their electric fences for chickens are known for their affordability, reliability, and ease of use.
Fi-Shock is a trusted brand that has been providing electric fencing solutions for over 50 years. Their electric fences for chickens are designed to be safe, effective, and long-lasting. They offer a variety of energizers, wires, and accessories to meet the needs of any chicken owner.
Ultimately, the best brand of electric fence for chickens will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It's important to choose a brand that is reliable, durable, and effective in keeping your chickens safe from predators.
What are the best materials for an electric fence for chickens?
When it comes to building an electric fence for chickens, it's important to choose materials that are safe, durable, and effective. The best materials for an electric fence for chickens include high-tensile wire, polytape, and poultry netting.
High-tensile wire is a popular choice for electric fences because it is strong, rust-resistant, and can handle a lot of tension. It's important to use a thick enough gauge wire to withstand the weight and pressure of the fence.
Polytape is another great option for electric fences for chickens. It is a flat, ribbon-like material that is highly visible and easy to work with. Poly tape is also easy to repair and replace if it becomes damaged.
Poultry netting is a good choice for those who want a more portable and flexible fence for their chickens. It is lightweight, easy to install, and can be moved around as needed. However, it's important to make sure the netting is sturdy enough to withstand the weight and pressure of the chickens.
In summary, the best materials for an electric fence for chickens are high-tensile wire, polytape, and poultry netting. It's important to choose the right material based on your specific needs and preferences.
What is the best wire gauge for an electric fence for chickens?
When it comes to choosing the right wire gauge for an electric fence for chickens, there are a few factors to consider. The wire gauge refers to the thickness of the wire, and a thicker wire will generally be able to carry more current without overheating or losing power. However, thicker wires can also be more expensive and may be harder to work with.
For most chicken coops and runs, a wire gauge of 14 to 16 should be sufficient. This will provide enough current to deter predators and keep chickens inside the enclosure, without being too heavy or expensive. However, if you have a large area to cover or very determined predators in your area, you may want to consider a thicker wire gauge of 12 or even 10.
Ultimately, the best wire gauge for your electric fence will depend on your specific needs and budget. It's always a good idea to consult with a professional or experienced chicken owner before making a final decision.
