Rating of manufacturers and models of electric shepherds for sheep and how to install
Technological progress facilitates human labor in various fields of activity. Earlier it was difficult to imagine that in agriculture one could do without a shepherd. Today, farmers are increasingly using an engineering novelty - electric shepherds to guard sheep in the pasture. The innovative method is not suitable for all farms. The device has not only advantages but also disadvantages.
What is an electroshepherd?
In animal husbandry, situations are not uncommon when shy animals fall under the wheels of passing vehicles or go far beyond the pasture. An electric shepherd helps to maintain the integrity of the herd. The device is a mobile fence to which an electric current is connected. The structure is easy to assemble:
- Wooden and metal poles are installed along the perimeter of the sheep walk.
- A wire is attached to the support in the form of transverse lines or a grid.
- Connect a voltage source.
Both small areas and large areas are fenced with such a fence.
Principle of operation
The action of the electric shepherd is based on the effect of the current on animals.
The hedge is powered by:
- Electricity.
- Batteries.
- Solar energy.
Sometimes farmers use a combination of food. At night, they switch to the energy accumulated by the batteries during the day.
Electric shepherds serve:
- Protection of flocks from predators.
- Prevent animals from leaving the pasture.
On farms, fences are used to organize a temporary enclosure for animals during the repair of a sheepfold or during the period of sanitizing a stationary building.
Pros and cons
Opinions about the effectiveness of the use of electric shepherds do not coincide. Some farmers note the advantages of the method, others find disadvantages.
In some cases, a negative impression of the design is due to installation errors. The fence is either completely out of order, or the current is not enough to stop the sheep. It also takes time to get used to the electric shepherd.
It takes about a month for the animals to stop trying to escape from the pasture.
Rating of manufacturers and models
The number of companies producing electric shepherds in the consumer market is growing every year. But not all products meet quality standards. Chinese fences are inexpensive, but they often break. One damaged wire can completely destroy all equipment. Several manufacturers have proven themselves reliably.
Finnish models
In the rating of the best suppliers, the leading position is taken by Olli. Ready-made kits include:
- Wooden supports.
- 3 rows of wire.
- Gate and battery.
The parts are designed for the installation of a fence with a length of 300 meters to 3 kilometers. Consumers note the quality of the products and the high price - from 28 to 80 thousand rubles, depending on the length of the fence.
Russian companies
Riks-TV is engaged in the production of electric shepherds for sheep. Standard complete set includes:
- Metal pillars.
- Fence designed to cover an area of up to 3 hectares.
- 2 power sources - mains and batteries.
- Hazard label.
The advantages of domestic products:
- Lower cost compared to foreign counterparts (20 thousand rubles).
- Manufacturing of products for individual orders.
For fencing large pastures (up to 300 hectares), farmers are advised to use the goods of the company "IE-200". Electric shepherds for 10 thousand rubles are equipped with an external battery and an internal battery.
Goods from New Zealand
The recently launched Speedrite products have proven themselves well. The products provide the ability to adjust the pulse frequency. Prices start at 20 thousand rubles. For this money, the buyer receives a set of posts for fastening the fence and a combined battery.
What to look for when buying
Important points to consider when buying an e-shepherd:
- For what purpose the hedge is installed - as a temporary measure or for stationary use.
- Number of power supplies.
- The reputation of the manufacturing company.
Farmers are advised to assess the terrain and determine which kit is suitable for installation - a typical kit or a structure made according to specific parameters.
User's manual
Electric shepherds have a simple design. During operation, follow simple safety rules:
- Install a reliable earthing system.
- It is forbidden to adjust the equipment under voltage.
- Power is cut off during thunderstorms.
- During the precipitation period, exclude contact with the elements of the fence.
- When installing, observe the layout of the support pillars.
- Exclude the presence of small children in the places of installation work.
To prevent the sheep from getting hurt, they must have a good view of the fence. Visual contact helps to quickly memorize a dangerous place.
The electronic control system has good development prospects. Already, electronic shepherds are actively used in farms. The device helps keep livestock in pasture and keeps crops outside of the hedge.