Containing Exotics

FAQs About Exotic Animal Containment

• What do I need to consider in setting up an electric fence for
  llamas?

• Why do you recommend at least 6-foot tall electric high

  tensile fence for deer and elk?

• Are electric fence systems safe for containing ostriches, emus
  and rheas?

Q:  What do I need to consider in setting up an electric fence for
       llamas?

A:  Llamas are fairly easy to contain and rarely try to escape, especially if there is more than one llama fenced in.

An electric fence is the safest fence to use for llamas, as it easily contains the llamas while keeping out any predators. It is recommended to have secure, tight fencing at least 4 ½ feet high for the perimeter fence, as it will provide safety and security for the llamas and crias (baby llamas).

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Q:    Why do you recommend at least 6-foot tall electric high tensile fence
       for deer and elk?

A:  Deer and elk are not easily domesticated – they are accustomed to roaming where they please, which is usually to food sources. Since they are strong jumpers, they can easily clear a fence that is their height.

In addition, they may “test” the electric fence by running into it to get out, so the fence needs to be durable and resilient to pressure.

Electric high tensile fencing is the ideal solution since it is long lasting, extremely strong and will maintain its shape even if run into. It can easily be built to 6-foot or taller heights.

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Q:   Are electric fence systems safe for containing ostriches, emus
       and rheas?

A:  Electric high tensile fence systems work well for ratites, especially where predators are a problem.

It is also effective to place an electric wire at the top and bottom of an existing mesh or chain link fence to keep out predators (wire is on the outside of the fence) or to keep the emus, ostriches or rheas from jumping over the fence, particularly if the fence is less than 6 feet high (wire is on the inside of the fence).

That being said, electric fences may not be the best overall solution for ratites, as these birds have a tendency to reach over, through or under fencing, which could risk their getting caught in the electric wires. Chain link or closely meshed woven wire fences 6 to 7 feet high are the safest and most effective.

Never use barbed wire fencing, as it can cause damage to the birds.

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Zareba® electric fence systems provide effective, reliable and affordable electric fencing for all your animal fencing needs.