Livestock are an important part of many farmers’ livelihoods, so it’s important to protect them from predators. Here are seven ways to do just that.
1) Consider getting a guardian animal
There are a number of benefits to having a guardian animal on your farm. Not only do they provide protection for your livestock, but they can also help to reduce stress levels. This can lead to increased weight gain in the herd, which will in turn increase your bottom line. Guardian animals can also provide early warning of predators or other potential threats, giving you time to take action before any damage is done. As such, they can play an important role in ensuring the safety and security of your farm.
Choosing what guardian animal to get depends on your particular situation, including the type of livestock you have, the layout of your farm, and the predators you are struggling with. In some cases, non-guardian animals can also help protect your livestock. Barn cats, for instance, prevent rodent populations from rising, translating to fewer eggs eaten by rodents. Roosters may help you keep an eye on your flock’s safety. By doing some research and matching the guardians to your specific needs, you can ensure that your livestock is well-protected.
Note that it’s best to introduce guardian animals to your herd while they’re still young. This way, you can raise them along with the herd they need to protect. Also, consider that livestock guard dogs do not typically live with the herd. In contrast, donkeys and llamas live with the livestock, enabling them to form a close bond and provide better protection.
2) Create a buddy system
Herd animals have a natural tendency to “bunch” together when they feel threatened. Cows and goats employ this defence mechanism to defend themselves against predators, who prefer a dynamic target to standing-still animals. By grazing together, the cows’ size serves as a deterrent to predators, preventing them from targeting smaller goats. As a result, the goats are better protected from potential harm. Implementing a buddy system is an effective way to keep your herd animals safe from predators.
3) Use quality fencing solutions
Though it can be difficult, it is important to keep your livestock in areas with predator-proof fencing. A long list of predators can easily get through small gaps or jump over fences. However, you can find alternative fencing methods, like mesh wire electric fencing, that provide a better barrier and require less maintenance. You could also deter birds of prey by creating a makeshift web using fishing line and strategically placing it over the top of the coop. You can also hang reflectors, like old CDs to further deter birds. Other options for preventing predators from getting to your livestock include living fences and motion-activated lights or sprinklers. By taking these precautions, you can help ensure the safety of your livestock. For more information on security fencing see JB Corrie.
4) Be open to new agricultural practices
As any farmer knows, protecting livestock from predators is a constant battle. There are a number of steps that can be taken to dissuade predators from attacking, such as moving pig pens to the edge of the property or changing up the grazing schedule. However, one of the most effective methods is to simply understand the patterns of farm predators. For instance, coyote attacks are most common in spring and summer, when the animals are feeding their young. By timing livestock births for times when predators will not be as active, farmers can greatly reduce the risk of attack. Changes to your well-established agricultural practices are always difficult to implement, but they can go a long way in keeping your livestock safe from predators.
