Energizers for Small Animals: Safe Runs for Chickens and Rabbits

Energizers for Small Animals: Protection for Runs and Enclosures

An energizer for small animals powers poultry netting, rabbit fencing and small enclosures. It keeps chickens, ducks or rabbits in their area and makes hungry visitors such as foxes and martens think twice. These units are usually compact, quick to install and well suited to electric netting that you move around the garden or meadow again and again.

Why Netting Needs a Suitable Energizer

Electric netting is made of plastic strands with fine wires woven in, and these conduct current less well than wire or rope. A suitable energizer still brings enough voltage to the far end of the net. It is important that the live strands do not touch grass or nettles, otherwise the voltage drops. Mow regularly under the netting and keep the fence line clear.

Battery, Mains or Solar

For a chicken run next to the house, a small 230V mains unit that runs without maintenance is often enough. If the enclosure is further away, 9V battery or 12V rechargeable units are a good choice. Compact solar energizers charge their own battery and suit mobile hen houses that you move regularly. Whatever unit you choose, make sure it has good earthing, because the effect suffers on dry ground in particular.

Frequently asked questions

How many volts does poultry netting need?
Feathers insulate well, so the netting usually needs more voltage than a horse fence. As a rule of thumb, a few thousand volts apply, and rather more to deter foxes. Measure the voltage with a fence tester at the point furthest from the energizer.

Does electric netting really keep foxes out?
Well-tensioned, live netting generally deters foxes reliably, because they usually make contact with their nose first. Continuous voltage and a net with no gaps at ground level are essential. If it sags or becomes overgrown, the effect wears off.

Can I keep rabbits with an electric fence?
Yes, many keepers secure rabbit enclosures with fine-mesh electric netting and a suitable energizer. Rabbits learn about the fence quickly and keep their distance. As they like to dig, the ground should also be secured.