How to choose an electric herder: tips for farmers
An electric herder is an important piece of equipment for farmers that helps not only to keep animals within pastures, but also to protect agricultural land from wild animals. The right choice of electric herder depends on many factors, including the size of the pasture, the type of animals and the features of the feeding system. In this article, we will consider in detail what you should pay attention to when choosing an electric shepherd for your farm.
The main criteria for choosing an electric shepherd
1. Type of power supply
Electric shepherds differ in type of power supply, which is one of the most important factors when choosing a system. There are three main types:
Mains electric herders : These models are mains powered and ideal for those farms , where it is possible to connect to the power grid. The advantage of network electric shepherds is that they provide constant power without replacing batteries or accumulators. However, their use is limited to areas with access to electricity.
Battery models : Powered by accumulators or batteries. Such electric herders are convenient for mobile pastures and remote areas where it is not possible to connect to the power grid. However, it is necessary to take into account the need for periodic replacement or recharging of the batteries.
Electric shepherds on solar batteries : These systems are the most autonomous. They run on the energy of the sun, which makes them ideal for use in remote areas where there is no access to electricity. Solar electric shepherds ensure long-term operation without the need to replace batteries.
2. Power pulse generator
The power of the electric shepherd is measured in joules. The larger the size of the pasture and the more animals it contains, the more powerful the generator should be. For small pastures with a small number of livestock, generators with a capacity of up to 1 joule are sufficient. For large pastures with a variety of animals, generator power should be 3-5 joules or higher.
Animals with dense wool, such as sheep, require stronger pulses because their wool insulates the electrical discharge. Cows and horses, on the other hand, are sensitive to smaller impulses, so less powerful systems will suit them.
3. Length of the fence
When choosing an electric shepherd, the length of the fence must be taken into account. The greater the perimeter of the pasture, the greater the length of the wire that needs to be stretched. Pulse generators must be able to maintain a stable electric discharge along the entire length of the fence. For example, an electric shepherd with a power of 1 joule is suitable for a perimeter of up to 5 km, and for longer fences - models with a power of 2-5 joules.
Some electric shepherds allow you to adjust the strength of the impulse, which is convenient for pastures that change according to size depending on the season or number of animals.
4. Type of animals
The type of animals you intend to keep also affects the choice of shepherd. Different species of animals react differently to electrical impulses. Here are some features:
Sheep : As already mentioned, sheep require stronger impulses due to their thick wool. They also need multi-row fences because sheep can just crawl under the wires.
Cows : They are sensitive to electrical impulses and their contents can be used medium power systems. Often one or two levels of wire are sufficient for cows.
Horses : For horses it is important to use tapes rather than wires because horses can see better with wide tapes , which prevents accidental injuries.
Pigs : Like sheep, pigs need multi-row fences because they can dig under the fence.
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5. Resistance to weather conditions
If you are going to use the electric shepherd in regions with harsh climatic conditions, pay attention to the system's resistance to weather changes. For example, electric shepherds that run on solar batteries may have problems in regions with a low number of sunny days. It is also important that the wires and insulators are protected from corrosion, especially if the fence is installed in areas with high humidity.
6. Price and manufacturer
The price of electric shepherds depends on many factors: generator capacity, power type, fence length and brand. Reliable and proven manufacturers such as Gallagher, KERBL or Patura offer a wide range of models for different types of farms. The cost can vary from budget models for small plots to more expensive and powerful systems for large farms.
Conclusion
Choosing an electric herder is an important step for farmers who want to effectively manage their herd. Factors such as power type, generator capacity, fence length, and animal species can be taken into account to select the optimal system that will ensure safety and efficiency. A properly selected electric shepherd will not only keep your animals in the pasture, but will also greatly simplify farm management.
