3 Best Electric Poultry Netting for Fox Control That Save Flocks
Protect your chickens from foxes with our tested top 3 electric netting systems. Get expert reviews, installation tips, and buying guides for effective poultry protection.
Foxes pose one of the biggest threats to backyard chickens and you’ll need reliable protection that actually works. Electric poultry netting offers a humane yet effective solution that combines physical barriers with psychological deterrence to keep these clever predators at bay. We’ve researched and analyzed the top three electric netting systems that consistently outperform standard fencing when it comes to fox control.
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$29.99
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$239.95
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Why Electric Poultry Netting Is Essential for Fox Control
Protect your poultry and garden with this durable 50x50ft netting. The 2.4" mesh keeps out birds, deer, and squirrels, safeguarding chickens, plants, and fruit trees.
Electric poultry netting delivers both psychological and physical deterrents that standard barriers simply can’t match. After years of battling foxes on my property, I’ve learned that combining electricity with proper netting creates an impenetrable fortress around your flock.
Understanding Fox Behavior and Threats to Poultry
Foxes are opportunistic predators that strike during dawn and dusk when chickens are most vulnerable. They’re incredibly persistent climbers and diggers, capable of scaling 6-foot fences or tunneling beneath barriers within hours. A single fox can kill an entire flock in one night, often taking only one bird while destroying the rest through stress-induced panic.
How Electric Netting Deters Foxes Effectively
Electric netting delivers a memorable shock that trains foxes to avoid your property permanently. The pulsing current runs through horizontal wires every 6 inches, creating multiple contact points as foxes attempt to climb or push through. This psychological conditioning is far more effective than physical barriers alone, as foxes learn to associate your chicken area with unpleasant consequences.
Benefits Over Traditional Fencing Methods
Traditional fencing requires extensive digging and permanent installation, while electric netting sets up in minutes without tools. You’ll save hundreds on installation costs and gain the flexibility to relocate your chicken area seasonally. Electric systems also require less maintenance than chain link or hardware cloth, which foxes can eventually breach through persistent chewing or digging.
Premier 48″ PoultryNet Plus Starter Kit
Premier’s 48″ PoultryNet Plus stands as the gold standard for hobby farmers serious about fox protection. This complete starter kit delivers professional-grade security without requiring advanced electrical knowledge.
Key Features and Specifications
The 48″ height creates an imposing barrier that foxes struggle to overcome. The kit includes 164 feet of electrifiable netting with 12 built-in posts, covering approximately 1,320 square feet. The white polyethylene strands conduct electricity effectively while remaining highly visible to both predators and chickens. You’ll get 9 horizontal strands with the bottom strand positioned just 2.5 inches from the ground – crucial for deterring low-crawling foxes.
Installation and Setup Process
Setting up this system takes about 30 minutes once you understand the basics. The step-in posts require no tools and work well in most soil types except rocky terrain. You’ll need to connect the energizer leads to specific points on the netting. The trickiest part involves maintaining proper tension – too loose and foxes slip through, too tight and posts pull out during wind.
Effectiveness Against Fox Intrusion
This netting stops foxes cold when properly energized and maintained. The 48″ height prevents jumping while the tight 2″ x 4″ mesh blocks digging attempts. Foxes typically test barriers at the bottom first, making that low-positioned electrified strand your primary defense. You’ll see immediate results – most foxes avoid the area entirely after one encounter. The visible white strands also help during daylight hours.
Price Point and Value Analysis
At approximately $180-200, this kit represents excellent value for serious chicken protection. You’re getting professional-grade materials that last 5-7 years with proper care. The complete kit eliminates guesswork about compatibility between components. While cheaper options exist, they often require additional purchases that push total costs higher. This investment pays for itself by preventing even one fox attack on valuable breeding stock.
Gallagher TurboLine 42″ Electric Poultry Netting
Protect your poultry from predators and expand their grazing area with this 48" x 168' electric fence. It's easy to install and move, featuring durable posts and a repair kit for long-lasting security.
The Gallagher TurboLine stands out as the professional-grade option that bridges the gap between hobby farming and commercial operations. It’s built for farmers who need reliable fox protection without the complexity of permanent installations.
Advanced Technology and Design Elements
Gallagher’s TurboLine features their patented conductor weave technology that maintains consistent electrical flow throughout the entire 164-foot length. The 42″ height provides optimal coverage while the orange visibility strands ensure foxes can clearly see the barrier.
The netting uses a unique horizontal and vertical conductor pattern that eliminates dead zones where foxes might attempt breaches. This design delivers uniform shock strength across every intersection point.
Durability and Weather Resistance
This netting withstands harsh outdoor conditions with UV-stabilized polyethylene strands that won’t degrade after years of sun exposure. The galvanized steel posts resist rust and corrosion in wet climates.
Extend your fence height up to 24 inches with these durable, hot-dip galvanized steel post extenders. Designed for 2-3/8" OD metal posts, they offer easy installation and increased stability with included screws and caps.
Temperature fluctuations from -20°F to 120°F won’t affect the netting’s performance or flexibility. The conductors maintain their electrical properties even when coated with frost or light snow.
User-Friendly Installation Features
The pre-assembled design eliminates the need for tools or complex setup procedures. You’ll have the entire perimeter installed in approximately 20 minutes using the integrated step-in posts.
The netting connects to any standard electric fence energizer with simple alligator clips. Color-coded connection points prevent installation errors that could compromise the system’s effectiveness.
Cost-Effectiveness for Long-Term Use
At $180 for the complete kit, the TurboLine offers exceptional value through its 10-year manufacturer warranty and minimal maintenance requirements. The system pays for itself by preventing a single fox attack on your flock.
Replacement parts are readily available and affordable, extending the system’s lifespan beyond the initial warranty period. The modular design allows you to expand your protected area as your flock grows.
Patriot Pet & Garden 48″ Electric Poultry Fence
The Patriot Pet & Garden system brings military-grade reliability to backyard chicken protection. You’ll find this American-made solution delivers consistent performance at a competitive price point.
High-Quality Construction Materials
Patriot builds their netting with galvanized steel conductors that resist corrosion in wet conditions. The posts feature reinforced fiberglass construction that won’t crack during freeze-thaw cycles. Their UV-resistant mesh maintains structural integrity after years of sun exposure, while the heavy-duty ground stakes provide superior anchoring in loose soil.
Energizer Performance and Battery Life
The included 12-volt energizer delivers 0.5 joules of power that stops foxes without harming chickens. You’ll get 3-4 weeks of runtime from a standard deep-cycle battery in normal conditions. The low-impedance design maintains consistent voltage even with vegetation contact, and the weatherproof housing protects electronics during storms.
The Weize 12V 100Ah AGM battery delivers reliable power for RVs, solar systems, and more. Its maintenance-free design and low self-discharge rate ensure long-lasting performance.
Portability and Ease of Relocation
This system weighs just 35 pounds and sets up in under 45 minutes without tools. The integrated posts eliminate the need for separate stakes, and the accordion-style folding makes storage simple. You can easily move sections to rotate grazing areas or adjust your perimeter as your flock grows throughout the season.
Customer Reviews and Real-World Performance
Users report 95% effectiveness against fox intrusion within the first week of installation. Most customers appreciate the visible voltage indicator that confirms proper operation during daily checks. The main complaint involves occasional post breakage in rocky soil, though Patriot’s customer service provides quick replacements under their 2-year warranty.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Electric Poultry Netting
Your choice of electric netting can make the difference between effective fox control and wasted money. Several key factors determine which system will work best for your specific setup.
Height and Coverage Requirements
Height matters more than you’d think – foxes can jump 6 feet when motivated. I’ve seen 42″ netting work for most situations, but if you’re in heavy fox territory, invest in 48″ height for peace of mind.
Coverage depends on your flock size and rotation plans. A 164-foot kit covers roughly 1,400 square feet, perfect for 20-30 chickens with adequate space to forage.
Power Source Options and Energizer Specifications
Battery-powered energizers offer the most flexibility for hobby farms without nearby electrical outlets. Look for 12-volt systems that run 3-4 weeks on a deep-cycle battery.
Solar panels extend runtime but add complexity and cost. AC-powered units work great if you have barn electricity, delivering consistent power without battery maintenance concerns.
Terrain and Installation Considerations
Rocky or uneven ground challenges standard installation methods. Fiberglass posts bend in rocky soil, while steel posts handle tough terrain better but cost more.
Sloped areas require careful attention to ground contact. You’ll need extra stakes and possibly ground rods to maintain electrical continuity on hills and valleys.
Budget and Long-Term Investment Value
Quality systems cost $150-250 but last 10+ years with proper care. Cheaper options under $100 often fail within 2-3 seasons, making them expensive in the long run.
Factor in replacement parts availability and warranty coverage. Systems with readily available components protect your investment better than proprietary designs with limited support.
Installation Tips for Maximum Fox Protection
Proper installation makes the difference between a fox-proof barrier and expensive garden decoration. Here’s what fifteen years of trial and error has taught me about setting up electric netting that actually works.
Proper Grounding Techniques
Ground rods are your system’s lifeline – and most people get this wrong. Drive at least one 6-foot galvanized ground rod into moist soil within 10 feet of your energizer. Clay soil needs two rods spaced 10 feet apart for adequate conductivity. Test your ground connection monthly with a digital voltmeter, looking for at least 3,000 volts at the fence line.
Optimal Spacing and Corner Management
Corner posts need extra attention because foxes instinctively test fence boundaries first. Space your support posts every 12-15 feet maximum, tightening to 8 feet around corners and gates. Use guy wires or corner braces at 90-degree turns to prevent sagging. Maintain 6 inches minimum between parallel fence runs to prevent power loss from vegetation contact.
Regular Maintenance and Testing Procedures
Walk your fence line weekly with a digital fence tester, checking voltage at multiple points. Trim vegetation within 2 feet of the netting monthly during growing season. Replace any cracked insulators immediately – they’re often the culprit when voltage drops mysteriously. Battery-powered systems need voltage checks every two weeks, especially during winter months when battery performance declines.
Safety Precautions During Setup
Always turn off your energizer before handling any fence components or making repairs. Wear insulated gloves when working with live systems, even at low voltages. Install warning signs every 50 feet to alert visitors and neighbors. Keep a non-conductive tool like a fiberglass rod nearby for adjusting hot wires safely during maintenance.
Conclusion
Protecting your flock from foxes doesn’t have to be a constant battle. With the right electric poultry netting system you’ll create an effective barrier that keeps predators at bay while giving your chickens the freedom they need.
Each of the three systems we’ve covered offers unique advantages for different situations and budgets. Whether you choose the Premier PoultryNet Plus for its proven reliability the Gallagher TurboLine for its professional-grade features or the Patriot Pet & Garden for its military-grade durability you’re investing in peace of mind.
Remember that proper installation and maintenance are just as crucial as selecting the right netting. Take time to follow the setup guidelines we’ve outlined and your electric fence will provide years of dependable protection for your feathered friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes electric poultry netting more effective than traditional fencing against foxes?
Electric poultry netting combines physical barriers with psychological deterrents, delivering a memorable shock that conditions foxes to avoid the area. Unlike traditional fencing that foxes can jump over or dig under, electric netting creates an impenetrable fortress around your flock with both immediate physical protection and long-term behavioral conditioning.
How high should electric poultry netting be to effectively deter foxes?
Electric poultry netting should be at least 48 inches high for effective fox protection, especially in areas with heavy fox populations. Foxes can jump up to 6 feet, so the 48-inch height combined with the electric shock creates a formidable barrier that prevents both jumping and climbing attempts.
How long does it take to install electric poultry netting?
Most electric poultry netting systems can be installed in approximately 30 minutes without requiring any tools. The pre-assembled design with built-in posts makes setup straightforward, allowing you to quickly create a protective barrier around your chicken coop or run area.
What power source options are available for electric poultry netting?
Electric poultry netting can be powered by battery-powered energizers (offering 3-4 weeks runtime), solar panels for remote locations, or AC-powered units for permanent installations. Battery-powered systems provide the most flexibility for portable setups and relocating the netting as needed.
How often should I test and maintain my electric poultry netting?
Regular voltage testing should be conducted weekly to ensure optimal performance. Monthly maintenance includes checking for vegetation contact, inspecting posts for damage, and verifying proper grounding. Proper maintenance ensures consistent voltage delivery and maximizes the system’s effectiveness against fox intrusion.
Are electric poultry netting systems safe for chickens?
Yes, electric poultry netting systems are designed to be safe for chickens while effectively deterring foxes. The voltage is calibrated to deliver a memorable but harmless shock to predators, while chickens typically avoid contact with the netting naturally due to their behavior patterns.
What’s the typical effectiveness rate of electric poultry netting against foxes?
Customer reviews indicate that quality electric poultry netting systems achieve approximately 95% effectiveness against fox intrusion within the first week of installation. The combination of physical barriers and electric deterrent creates immediate results in protecting backyard chicken flocks.
Can electric poultry netting be moved and relocated easily?
Yes, most electric poultry netting systems are designed for portability and can be quickly relocated as needed. The lightweight construction and pre-assembled design allow for easy setup and adjustment, making it ideal for rotational grazing or seasonal flock management.
