Electric fencing

QI have had fox problems in the past and subsequently got some of that orange mesh electric fencing. I do like it as it can be moved around to suit me and my hens. I heard that the electric current can short out if grass or twigs get on it and so I keep the grass short and the battery checked. However, after several weeks of safety and security for my hens, the fox got in and slaughtered nearly all of them.

VR SAYS: I am sorry to hear of your loss. It is absolutely devastating when this happens. There are two types of this plastic fencing, a larger mesh which has several electric strands running horizontally through it and a smaller plastic mesh (like builders use) with no electric strands but a wire is run alongside the fence about 15cm away and 15cm above the ground – this is at fox nose height – and put on insulated posts. A tester for an electric fence is a good investment as the current may have become weaker over time. A mains pulse unit is more protective (if convenient) as it is always at full force and should never be turned off – care with children and pets, though. I am not a fan of those fences as poultry can get caught in the electrified mesh version.