What is an electric shepherd and how does it work: a complete guide for beginners
The electric shepherd is a modern and an effective means of controlling animals in the pasture using electrical impulses. The use of an electric herder greatly simplifies the control over the movement of the herd, prevents the escape of animals and reduces the costs of traditional fences, such as wooden or metal fences. For many farmers, an electric herder has become an integral part of their farm, especially when it comes to keeping cattle, sheep or horses.
What is an electric herder?
An electric herder is a fencing system that uses electrical impulses to keep animals in a certain area. The principle of operation of the electric shepherd is that a weak electric pulse is transmitted from a wire stretched around the perimeter of the pasture. This discharge is not dangerous for animals, but creates an unpleasant sensation when an animal touches the wire. Thus, the animals learn to avoid contact with the fence and stay inside the pasture.
Electric herders are used for various purposes - from fencing pastures to protecting farmland from wild animals. Depending on the type of system, electric shepherds can be powered by mains electricity, batteries or solar panels, making them ideal for use in remote areas.
Main components of an electric shepherd
An electric shepherd consists of several key components, which ensure its efficient operation:
Pulse generator : This is the main device that generates electrical impulses. The power of the generator can vary depending on the needs of the farm. For small farms and pastures, generators with a power of up to 1 joule are sufficient. For larger farms where long wire lengths and protection of multiple zones are required, more powerful models with up to 5 joules are required.
Wire or Tape : Wire or a special tape stretched around the perimeter of the pasture. Tapes are often used for horses because they are visible to animals and reduce the risk of injury. Wires are preferred for cows and sheep because they are reliable and durable.
Insulators : These items are attached to poles and prevent electricity from leaking out of the system. Insulators are installed along the entire fence so that the electric current is transmitted only through the wire, and not into the ground.
Grounding : A mandatory element of any shepherd system. Without proper grounding, the system will not work effectively. The grounding pin is driven into the ground to a depth of at least 1 meter. The better the contact with the moist soil, the higher the efficiency of the system.
Principle of operation of the electric shepherd
The electric shepherd works according to the following principle: the pulse generator sends short electrical discharges along wire or tape. When the animal touches the fence, its body undergoes a weak discharge, which causes unpleasant sensations. This discharge is weak enough not to harm the animal, but strong enough that it will instinctively avoid touching the fence in the future.
The pulses are delivered at intervals, allowing the animal to back away from the fence after contact. It is important that the electric shepherd is safe for animals and people. Electric shepherd systems are designed in such a way that the electrical discharge cannot cause physical damage. Even if a person or animal accidentally touches the fence, they will not be seriously injured, but will feel the discharge as a sharp shock, causing a natural desire to avoid repeated contact.
Advantages of using an electric shepherd
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Economy : Installation of an electric shepherd requires lower costs compared to traditional physical fences. Moreover, electric herder systems require minimal maintenance and can last for many years.
Flexibility : Electric herder can easily adapt to any conditions. It is possible to fence both small areas and large pastures. In addition, the fence can be easily moved as needed.
Ease of installation and use : No special knowledge is required to install the shepherd. The main elements of the system are easily mounted, and the generator setup will not take much time. Installation of an electric herder can be done in just a few hours.
Safety : Electric herders are safe for both animals and people. The current transmitted through the wires does not cause harm, but only causes short-term discomfort.
Efficiency : Electric shepherds have proven their effectiveness in practice. They keep animals within a fenced area and prevent them from escaping, which is especially important for sheep and horses.
What types of electric herders are there?
There are several types of electric herders. , each of which has its own characteristics:
Electric Shepherds : They work from an electrical network. Such models are suitable for farms with access to electricity. Their main advantage is stable operation and no need to change batteries.
Battery electric shepherds : These models work on batteries or regular batteries. An ideal choice for mobile fences or areas where it is not possible to connect to the electricity grid.
Electric shepherds on solar batteries : Autonomous systems that work on solar energy. It is ideal for remote pastures where there is no access to electricity. Solar electric shepherds do not require constant maintenance, because solar energy charges the battery, ensuring uninterrupted operation of the system.
Conclusion
Electric shepherd is not just a modern technology, but and a reliable tool for animal management. It helps reduce the cost of building traditional fences, improve herd control and ensure animal safety. Regardless of whether you are a beginner farmer or already have experience in animal husbandry, the electric shepherd will be an excellent assistant in farming.
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