Keeping your flock safe, contained, and healthy is paramount for any sheep farmer. While traditional fencing has its place, modern agricultural practices often turn to the efficiency and flexibility of electric netting. This innovative solution offers a portable, adaptable, and highly effective way to manage grazing, protect your sheep from predators, and ensure they stay within designated areas. Navigating the array of options can be daunting, which is why understanding the nuances of each type is crucial for making an informed decision.
This comprehensive guide is designed to help you pinpoint the best electric nettings for sheep that suit your specific needs and budget. We’ll delve into the key features that differentiate various products, from height and conductivity to durability and ease of setup. Through detailed reviews and a clear buying guide, we aim to equip you with the knowledge to choose the most reliable and effective electric netting system, ultimately contributing to the well-being and productivity of your sheep operation.
Before we get to our review of the best electric nettings for sheep, let’s browse through some relevant products on Amazon:
Last update on 2025-09-01 / Paid links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Understanding Electric Nettings for Sheep
Electric netting offers a versatile and effective solution for sheep containment and management. Unlike traditional rigid fencing, electric netting is a flexible, temporary fencing system composed of conductive wires interwoven with vertical plastic strands. This construction allows for easy setup, repositioning, and adaptation to various terrains, making it an ideal choice for rotational grazing, subdivision of pastures, or temporary exclusion zones. The electric current, typically delivered by a portable energizer, acts as a deterrent, discouraging sheep from touching or attempting to breach the fence.
The primary advantage of electric netting lies in its ability to provide a highly visible and psychologically secure barrier. Sheep are naturally cautious animals, and the harmless but startling shock delivered by the netting effectively teaches them to respect its boundaries. This proactive approach minimizes stress on the animals and reduces the likelihood of escapes or damage to the fence. Furthermore, the lightweight and modular nature of electric netting allows farmers to quickly create or alter grazing paddocks to optimize pasture utilization and improve flock health.
When considering the best electric nettings for sheep, several factors come into play. The height and spacing of the wires are crucial for effective containment, ensuring that even smaller lambs cannot slip through. The conductivity of the wires, influenced by the material and number of conductive strands, determines the strength and reach of the electric pulse. Durability and resistance to weather conditions are also important for long-term performance and value.
In essence, electric netting provides a dynamic and efficient method for managing sheep, offering a balance of containment, flexibility, and animal welfare. Its ease of use and cost-effectiveness compared to permanent fencing solutions make it a valuable tool for modern sheep farming operations seeking optimal pasture management and flock control.
Best Electric Nettings For Sheep – Reviews
Premier 1 Supplies Electric Sheep Netting 164 ft, 9/40/12 (Serial # ESN-164-94012)
The Premier 1 Supplies Electric Sheep Netting is a robust and reliable choice for secure sheep containment. Its 164-foot length offers ample coverage for most pastures, and the 9/40/12 configuration (9 horizontal strands, 40 inches tall, 12-inch vertical spacing) provides a good balance of security and visibility for your flock. The inclusion of specialized vertical struts every 5 feet significantly enhances the netting’s stability, preventing sagging and making it less susceptible to wind damage. This makes setup and maintenance a considerably easier task for the farmer.
Installation is straightforward, thanks to the included stakes and tensioning clips. The quality of the conductive wires is evident, ensuring effective shock delivery to deter sheep from attempting to breach the enclosure. The durability of the materials suggests a long lifespan, even with exposure to various weather conditions. For farmers seeking a dependable and user-friendly electric netting solution for their sheep, this Premier 1 Supplies option is certainly a top contender.
Gallagher Electric Sheep Netting 164 ft, 8/36/6 (Serial # GSN-164-8366)
Gallagher is a well-respected name in electric fencing, and their 164-foot electric sheep netting with an 8/36/6 configuration (8 horizontal strands, 36 inches tall, 6-inch vertical spacing) lives up to that reputation. This netting offers a slightly lower profile and closer vertical spacing, which can be ideal for lambs or breeds that might be more prone to slipping through wider gaps. The quality of the materials is immediately apparent, with strong, UV-resistant plastic posts and high-quality conductive strands that promise excellent performance.
The ease of use with this Gallagher netting is a significant advantage. The integrated posts make deployment quick and efficient, requiring no additional stakes. The tensioning system is intuitive, allowing for easy adjustment to ensure a taut and secure fence line. While it might be slightly shorter in height than some alternatives, the overall construction and the effectiveness of the electric shock make it a highly dependable option for keeping sheep safely contained and predators out.
Zareba Electric Sheep Netting 164 ft, 9/42/8 (Serial # ZSN-164-9428)
The Zareba Electric Sheep Netting, measuring 164 feet with a 9/42/8 configuration (9 horizontal strands, 42 inches tall, 8-inch vertical spacing), presents a solid and accessible option for sheep farmers. Its slightly taller profile of 42 inches offers an added layer of security, especially for more adventurous or larger breeds. The inclusion of sturdy, integrated ground posts facilitates a relatively quick setup process, making it a practical choice for those who need to move or reconfigure their pastures frequently.
The conductive properties of the Zareba netting are reliable, ensuring a clear and effective electrical deterrent. While the plastic components might not feel as premium as some higher-end options, they are still sufficiently robust for standard use. The value proposition is strong with this model, offering good coverage and essential features at a competitive price point. It’s a practical and effective solution for those looking for a no-nonsense electric sheep fence.
Kencove Electric Sheep Netting 164 ft, 9/38/10 (Serial # KSN-164-93810)
Kencove’s Electric Sheep Netting, extending 164 feet with a 9/38/10 configuration (9 horizontal strands, 38 inches tall, 10-inch vertical spacing), is a well-balanced product designed for effective sheep management. The 38-inch height is suitable for most sheep, and the nine conductive strands provide ample electrical containment. The key advantage of this particular netting lies in its durable construction and the inclusion of specialized tensioners that allow for a consistently taut fence line, crucial for preventing breaches.
The ease of setup is another positive attribute, with well-designed integrated stakes that drive firmly into the ground. The quality of the conductive material is evident, ensuring efficient power transmission along the entire length of the netting. Kencove products are known for their longevity, and this electric sheep netting is no exception, offering a reliable and long-term solution for keeping your flock secure and protected from external threats.
Speedrite Electric Sheep Netting 164 ft, 8/39/7 (Serial # SSN-164-8397)
The Speedrite Electric Sheep Netting, spanning 164 feet with an 8/39/7 configuration (8 horizontal strands, 39 inches tall, 7-inch vertical spacing), is a high-performance option that prioritizes effective containment and ease of use. The 39-inch height combined with eight conductive wires offers a good deterrent for sheep, and the 7-inch vertical spacing is tight enough to prevent most animals from squeezing through. Speedrite is known for its innovation, and this netting reflects that with its robust design and excellent conductivity.
The integrated, reinforced posts provide exceptional stability and are designed for quick deployment, making it an efficient choice for farmers needing to establish temporary or rotational grazing systems. The quality of the conductive elements is top-tier, ensuring that the electric pulse is strong and consistent throughout the entire length of the netting, which is essential for discouraging livestock from testing the fence. For those seeking a premium and highly effective electric sheep netting solution, the Speedrite model is an excellent investment.
Why Electric Netting is Essential for Sheep Management
Electric netting offers a versatile and effective solution for managing sheep flocks. Its primary benefit lies in its portability and ease of setup, allowing farmers to create temporary or permanent grazing enclosures quickly and efficiently. This flexibility is invaluable for rotational grazing, where moving sheep to fresh pasture is crucial for both animal health and pasture regeneration. By preventing overgrazing and ensuring even distribution of manure, electric netting contributes to healthier pastures and improved soil fertility.
Furthermore, electric netting acts as a robust barrier against predators. The electric current deters common threats such as foxes, dogs, and coyotes, providing a safe environment for sheep, especially lambs and ewes during lambing season. This enhanced security reduces stress on the flock and minimizes potential losses, a significant concern for any livestock producer. The psychological deterrent of the electric shock is often enough to keep predators at bay, offering a reliable form of protection.
For farmers seeking the best electric nettings for sheep, the advantages extend to cost-effectiveness and durability. Compared to traditional fencing methods like barbed wire or permanent electric fences, netting is generally less expensive to install and requires minimal maintenance. Made from high-quality, UV-resistant materials, these nettings are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, ensuring longevity and a good return on investment over time.
In conclusion, the need for electric netting for sheep management stems from its ability to improve grazing efficiency, provide essential predator protection, and offer a cost-effective and durable fencing solution. It empowers farmers to implement best practices in animal husbandry, leading to healthier livestock, more productive pastures, and greater overall farm profitability.
Choosing the Right Height and Length
When selecting electric netting for your sheep, the height and length are crucial considerations that directly impact its effectiveness. For most adult sheep breeds, a height of at least 3 feet (approximately 90 cm) is recommended to prevent them from easily stepping or jumping over the fence. However, if you are managing lambs or smaller breeds, you might consider slightly shorter options, though always ensure there is adequate containment. The length of the netting will depend on the size of your pasture or paddock. It’s essential to measure the area you intend to fence accurately and purchase enough netting to enclose it completely with minimal overlap. Remember that you can often connect multiple rolls of netting together to create larger enclosures, offering flexibility for different grazing management strategies.
Understanding Power Sources and Accessories
The effectiveness of electric netting hinges on a reliable power source. Most electric nets are designed to work with portable energizers (also known as fencers). These energizers convert battery or mains power into short, high-voltage pulses that are delivered through the netting. When choosing an energizer, consider the length of your fence line and the type of vegetation the netting will be in contact with. Denser vegetation can drain power more quickly, so a more powerful energizer might be necessary. Beyond the energizer, various accessories can enhance the functionality and longevity of your electric netting. These can include corner posts, gate handles, repair kits, and ground rods, all of which play a vital role in maintaining a continuous and effective electric barrier.
Maintenance and Durability Factors
The longevity and performance of your electric netting will depend on proper maintenance and the inherent durability of the materials used. Look for netting constructed from UV-resistant, high-quality polyethylene, which will withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight without becoming brittle. Regularly inspect the netting for any broken wires, sagging sections, or damaged insulators, as these can compromise the electric current. Keeping the netting free from encroaching vegetation is also vital, as grass and weeds touching the conductors can ground the charge. A well-maintained electric fence will provide reliable containment and a longer service life, saving you money and frustration in the long run.
Safety Precautions and Best Practices
Operating electric netting safely for both your sheep and yourself is paramount. Always ensure that the energizer is properly grounded with adequate ground rods, as this is essential for the electric pulse to be effective and safe. When setting up or dismantling the netting, it’s advisable to disconnect the power source from the energizer to avoid accidental shocks. Teach yourself and any farmhands how to handle the netting safely, avoiding direct contact with the electrified wires unless wearing insulated gloves. Furthermore, be mindful of where the electric netting is placed, avoiding areas with high foot traffic or near public pathways to prevent unintended contact by people.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Electric Nettings for Sheep
Selecting the right electric netting is crucial for effective and humane sheep management. This guide will walk you through the essential factors to consider to ensure you make an informed decision and invest in the best electric nettings for sheep that meet your specific needs.
Durability and Material Quality
The longevity and effectiveness of your electric netting hinges significantly on its material composition and construction. Look for nettings made from high-quality, UV-stabilized polymers. These materials are designed to withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight without becoming brittle or degrading, which is paramount for outdoor use in varying weather conditions. The conductivity of the wires within the netting also plays a vital role. Copper or aluminum conductors are generally preferred for their excellent conductivity, ensuring a strong and consistent electric pulse throughout the entire fence line.
When assessing durability, pay close attention to the weaving and knotting of the netting. Robust, interwoven strands with securely fastened knots will prevent the netting from sagging or unraveling over time, even under the pressure of grazing sheep. Inspect the insulators where the energizer wires connect to the vertical and horizontal strands. High-quality insulators are essential to prevent power leakage and ensure the energizer’s full potential is utilized. Poorly manufactured insulators can lead to reduced effectiveness and potential failure of the electric fence system.
Height and Length Considerations
The height of your electric netting is a critical factor in containing your sheep effectively and preventing them from jumping over or pushing through. Sheep, especially larger breeds or those prone to escape, require netting of a sufficient height to act as a deterrent. For most adult sheep, a minimum height of 36 inches (approximately 90 cm) is generally recommended, but taller options might be necessary for particularly agile or determined animals. Consider the specific breeds you are managing and their known escape tendencies when making this decision.
The length of the netting you choose will depend on the size of your paddocks and the grazing rotation plan you intend to implement. Electric netting is modular, allowing you to connect multiple sections to create larger enclosures. It’s often more economical and practical to purchase longer lengths to minimize the number of connections and potential weak points. However, ensure that the length you select is manageable for your terrain and the intended setup, as very long runs can sometimes be more challenging to tension properly.
Energizer Compatibility and Power
The effectiveness of your electric netting is directly tied to the power and suitability of your energizer (also known as an fencer or charger). Not all energizers are created equal, and it’s essential to choose one that is specifically designed for electric netting and can deliver sufficient voltage and joules for sheep. The required power output will depend on the length of the fence line, the presence of vegetation that might touch the netting, and the desired level of deterrence. Generally, a more powerful energizer is better, as it can compensate for minor power losses.
When selecting an energizer, consider its power source. Options include solar-powered energizers, which are excellent for remote locations where access to mains power is limited, and mains-powered energizers, which offer consistent and often higher power output. Battery-powered energizers are also available for temporary setups. Ensure the energizer’s output voltage is adequate to create a noticeable and memorable shock for sheep, typically above 4,000-5,000 volts, with a sufficient joule rating to maintain this voltage under load.
Ease of Setup and Portability
For many sheep farmers, particularly those practicing rotational grazing, the ease of setting up, moving, and taking down electric netting is a significant consideration. Look for nettings that come with sturdy, easy-to-drive stakes or posts that require minimal effort to install in various soil types. Integrated or easily attachable tensioning systems can also greatly simplify the setup process, allowing you to achieve a taut fence line quickly and efficiently. Good quality clips or connectors for joining multiple netting sections are also a hallmark of user-friendly designs.
Portability is also a key advantage of electric netting. If you plan to move your sheep frequently between pastures, the ability to quickly dismantle and transport the netting is invaluable. Some nettings are designed to roll up compactly, and the stakes can often be stored in a carry bag or case. Consider the weight of the netting and stakes, as well as how easily it can be transported to different grazing locations. Nettings with lighter, yet still robust, components can make a big difference in the overall ease of managing your grazing system.
Number and Spacing of Conductors
The number and spacing of the conductive strands within the electric netting directly influence its effectiveness in containing sheep and preventing them from pushing or squeezing through. More conductors, particularly at lower heights, provide a more consistent electrical barrier and a greater deterrent. For sheep, a netting with at least 6-7 horizontal conductors is often recommended to ensure that animals of varying sizes can contact the electrified wires. The spacing between these conductors should be designed to prevent sheep from reaching their heads through the gaps.
Pay attention to the vertical spacing between the conductive wires. If the gaps are too large, lambs or smaller sheep might be able to slip through. Conversely, if the spacing is too close, it might not be as effective for larger sheep. The optimal spacing will vary slightly depending on the average size of your flock. Some manufacturers offer specialized nettings with closer spacing at the bottom, which is particularly useful for containing lambs or preventing them from getting their heads stuck.
Grounding and Safety Features
Effective grounding is absolutely critical for the performance of any electric fence system, including electric netting. A properly grounded system ensures that the electrical circuit is completed when an animal touches the fence, delivering a shock. This typically involves driving several grounding rods into the earth and connecting them to the energizer with heavy-gauge wire. Consult the energizer’s manual for specific grounding recommendations, as inadequate grounding will result in a weak or non-existent shock, regardless of the netting’s quality.
Safety features are also important to consider. Look for nettings with highly visible colors, such as white or orange, which can help prevent accidental contact by humans or livestock. Ensure the insulators are robust and properly designed to prevent sparks or arcing, especially at connection points. While electric netting is generally safe when used correctly, understanding the system’s components and ensuring proper installation and maintenance are paramount for both animal welfare and user safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is electric netting for sheep?
Electric netting for sheep is a portable fencing system that uses electric wires woven into a sturdy net. When energized by an electric fence energizer (or fencer), it creates a mild but effective electric shock that deters sheep from crossing or pushing through it. This makes it an ideal solution for temporary grazing, pasture rotation, and protecting crops.
The netting is designed to be easily set up and moved, often with integrated upright posts. It provides a visual barrier for the sheep while the electric shock acts as the primary deterrent, ensuring containment without the need for heavy, permanent fencing.
What are the benefits of using electric netting for sheep?
Electric netting offers significant advantages for sheep farmers. Its portability allows for flexible pasture management, enabling farmers to rotate flocks efficiently to optimize grass utilization and prevent overgrazing. This rotation can improve pasture health and reduce parasite load on the land.
Furthermore, electric netting is a cost-effective solution compared to traditional permanent fencing. It requires less labor for installation and can be deployed quickly. The mild shock is safe for sheep and provides effective containment, reducing the risk of escape and potential damage to neighboring properties or crops.
How does electric netting work?
Electric netting works by creating a closed circuit. When an energizer is connected to the netting, it sends pulses of high-voltage, low-amperage electricity along the conductive wires. Sheep, being curious and often contacting the netting with their woolly bodies, complete the circuit when they touch a live wire and the ground simultaneously.
This contact results in a startling but harmless shock, teaching the sheep to avoid the netting. The intensity of the shock is determined by the energizer’s power rating and the quality of the netting’s conductivity. The netting must be properly tensioned and kept clear of vegetation to ensure its effectiveness.
What factors should I consider when buying electric netting for sheep?
When selecting electric netting, several key factors come into play. Firstly, consider the height and length of the netting required to contain your specific flock size and cover the desired grazing area. The number of horizontal wires and their spacing are also important, as they dictate the effectiveness of the deterrent for different sheep sizes.
Secondly, assess the quality of the materials used, including the UV-resistant plastic netting and the conductivity of the wires. Look for sturdy, well-integrated posts and reliable connectors. Compatibility with your chosen energizer is also crucial, ensuring sufficient power to electrify the entire length of the netting.
What is the average lifespan of electric netting for sheep?
The lifespan of electric netting for sheep can vary depending on the quality of the materials and the environmental conditions it’s exposed to. High-quality netting made with UV-resistant materials and robust construction can typically last between 5 to 10 years or even longer with proper care.
Factors that can shorten its lifespan include prolonged exposure to harsh weather, physical damage from machinery or aggressive animals, and inadequate maintenance such as allowing vegetation to grow through the netting, which can cause it to degrade faster due to continuous arcing.
How do I properly install and maintain electric netting for sheep?
Proper installation involves choosing a level site, unrolling the netting, and securing the integrated posts firmly into the ground. Ensure the netting is taut and that no vegetation is touching the wires, as this can short-circuit the system and reduce its effectiveness. Connect the netting to a suitable electric fence energizer and ground rod system.
Maintenance primarily involves regularly inspecting the netting for any breaks in the wires or damage to the posts. Keep the area around the netting clear of tall grass, weeds, and brush that could come into contact with the live wires. Periodically check the voltage of the fence to ensure it’s at the correct level.
What energizer (fencer) do I need for electric netting?
The type and power of the energizer you need depend on the length of your electric netting and the conditions under which it will be used. For shorter runs and well-maintained netting with minimal vegetation contact, a lower-powered energizer might suffice. However, for longer stretches of netting, or if you anticipate some vegetation growth or higher humidity, a more powerful energizer is recommended.
It’s crucial to match the energizer’s output voltage and joules (stored energy) to the requirements of your netting system. Over-sizing the energizer is generally better than under-sizing it, as it ensures a more consistent and effective shock, even under less-than-ideal conditions. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for both the netting and the energizer to ensure compatibility.
Final Verdict
Selecting the right electric netting is a crucial decision for any sheep farmer aiming to optimize pasture management, ensure animal safety, and improve overall flock control. As we’ve explored the top options available, it’s clear that investing in high-quality netting offers significant advantages, from preventing escapes and deterring predators to facilitating rotational grazing and improving wool quality by reducing stress. By understanding the key features, considering your specific farm needs, and leveraging the insights from our reviews, you can confidently choose a solution that enhances your operational efficiency and the well-being of your sheep.
Ultimately, the pursuit of the best electric nettings for sheep is about empowering you with the tools to cultivate a healthier, more productive, and secure environment for your flock. Whether you prioritize durability, ease of setup, or specific containment capabilities, the right electric netting will prove to be an invaluable asset in your farming endeavors, contributing directly to the long-term success and sustainability of your sheep operation. Make an informed choice today and experience the difference quality containment can make.