Will an Electric Fence Deter Deer From a Garden?

Shockingly, electric fences help to deter deer and contain livestock.

The battle between gardeners and deer often results in psychological warfare through the use of electric fences. In many cases, this seemingly inhumane method of garden pest prevention proves the most effective for deterring deer.

Significance

Electric fences give animals and humans who come into direct contact with live wires a painful though safe electric shock. This shock works to condition deer and other animals to avoid the pain-causing wire and stay away from gardens surrounding by the structures.

Expert Insight

Colorado State Univeristy Extension Service recommends using electric fences made from 13.5-gauge, high-tensile and triple-galvanized wire. To work effectively, the extension service recommends a current of 35 milliamps paired with 3,000 to 4,500 volts.

Considerations

To ensure that deer receive a repellent warning shock from the electric fence, you may need to make the fence more noticeable. Professionals at Colorado State University extension recommend, with the fence turned off, tying strips of cloth or ribbon along the length of the wire to make the fence more visible to deer. Another electric fence deterrent involves applying baits, lures or attractants to the wire to encourage deer to touch the wire.

References

• Montana State University Extension Service: Electric Fencing to Control Deer and Elk
• Colorado State University Extension: Preventing Deer Damage
• Fine Gardening: Deer-Proof Electric Fence

Resources

• Brooklyn Botanic Garden: Deer Deterrents That Work