Electric Fence for Bears and Predators can protect backcountry food storage, camps, and beehives and prevent bears from entering homes. Proper design, construction, and maintenance are key to success.
An electrified fence works like a regular fence, except that each wire is connected to the positive (hot or +) terminal on an energizer. When animals touch the fence or a grounded rod, they get a shock. The electricity travels down the wire, through the animal’s body, into the ground, then back up to the energizer. The higher the voltage on the energizer, the better the fence will work.
Electric Fence for Bears and Predators: What You Need to Know
The best energizers are AC powered, but solar and 12-volt battery-powered energizers are also available. When choosing an energizer, consider its pulse rate and joule rating (a measure of energy output). Low cost, slow-pulse energizers with low joule ratings are adequate for livestock and pets, but will not be effective for deterring bears in most locations. Ask your state wildlife agency for recommendations based on your region and what you’re protecting.
To maximize the effectiveness of your fence, place it 3 to 5 feet away from any structures you are protecting, such as chicken coops and rabbit hutches, and fruiting trees. This distance will ensure that the fence is encountered before any bears reach your attractants. Als,o consider placing a sign along the fence and at gates to improve visibility and warn people that the fence is electrified.
