Electric Fence to Keep Out Bears
Bears are a very difficult and challenging predator to keep out. They are
thickly insulated, tremendously strong, clever and determined animals.
Protecting beehives
Bears cause damage to beekeeping equipment as well as consume the honey. They
do most of their damage in the spring, shortly after coming out of hibernation;
and in the fall, just prior to hibernation.
Since beehives tend to move from year to year, a temporary electric
fence system may be your best solution. T-posts or rod posts are well
suited for this type of fence. Use at least three strands of wire (steel, poly
wire or poly tape) spaced approximately 10" apart starting 20" off the ground.
Beekeepers who experience bear damage should immediately contact their local
Fish and Wildlife office.
Other Applications
To protect garbage dumps or livestock from bear damage we recommend
electrified high tensile fence.
Fence options
Use 72-inch wood or steel T-posts driven 2 feet into the ground and spaced 10
to 12 feet apart. Corner posts will need to be braced. Wire spacing should
start 12 " from the ground with at least 4 wire strands spaced at 10 - 12 inch
intervals.
All of the wires should be electrified. We also recommend a low impedance fence
controller to increase energy levels on the fence if weeds start to grow.
Choose a fence controller that can produce a minimum of 5,000 volts.
You will also need to train bears to avoid the fence by baiting them. Attach
perforated aluminum cans of sardines or rancid bacon to the hot wires of the
fence using metal wire. Hang the cans so the juices don't run out. This
encourages the bear to lick the electrified "lunch", and the shock effectively
conditions them to avoid the area.
Frequently asked questions about
predators.
  
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