In Atlantic Canada, there are multiple pests that threaten the safety of honey bee colonies. One major pest that beekeepers often stress about is bears, which will destroy equipment and eat honey and bees. An electric fence around an apiary is the most effective way to prevent a bear attack. Read this week’s blog to learn some key considerations for electric fencing.
What Beekeepers Should Consider about Electric Fencing
Bears present
a significant threat to honey bee colonies across Atlantic Canada, with the
exception of Prince Edward Island, which lacks a bear population. To safeguard
apiaries from bear attacks, beekeepers often rely on electric fencing as a
primary defense measure.
Ensuring the
effectiveness of an electric fence requires proper installation and regular
maintenance. Adequate grounding is crucial, particularly in environments like
blueberry fields where the soil is typically sandy. To function properly, the
ground must contain sufficient moisture to conduct electricity. Grounding rods
should be buried at least 3 feet deep to ensure optimal performance. Otherwise,
during drought conditions, beekeepers might need to moisten the area around the
electric fencing to sustain conductivity.
Unlike
humans, bears are not instinctively aware of the danger posed by electric
fences. Therefore, it is essential to bait new fences to train bears to avoid
them. Baiting methods such as bacon strips or cans of tuna attached to wires
can effectively teach bears to steer clear of the charged fence.
Another key
consideration is that when hives are rented for pollination, the grower and the
beekeeper need to determine who is to be responsible for installing and
maintaining the fence. Addressing colony protection in pollination contracts
ensures that both parties are aware of their obligations.
For new
beekeepers, there is a
cost-benefit analysis that should be considered before purchasing an electric
fence. A new beekeeper should weigh both the cost of installing an electric
fence and the current value of their colonies. If the cost of purchasing a
fence is significantly higher than the value of their colonies, it may not make
economic sense to invest in a fence. However, if the beekeeper anticipates
expanding their operation in the near future, then buying a fence is likely a
good investment. Conversely, if a beekeeper's colonies are valued higher than
the cost of a fence, it would be unwise to put their operation at risk by not
protecting their colonies, especially in an area with a high bear population.
Finally, when
selecting a charger for an electric fence, it is essential to consider various
options. The key factor to prioritize is the power output of the charger. For
optimal bear deterrence, the charger should output a minimum of 1 joule. Other
factors come into play when choosing a charger. Solar-powered chargers, while
more expensive, require less frequent checks. On the other hand,
battery-powered chargers are more budget-friendly, but it is essential for
beekeepers or growers to ensure that the batteries are consistently fully
charged. Opting for a 12-volt (2 joules stored) solar-powered charger is
advisable, as it maintains a reliable charge and delivers sufficient shock to
discourage bears from returning. Alternatively, a 9-volt (less than 1 joule
stored) D cell battery-powered charger is a common choice, but it may not
provide the necessary shock to deter bears, and the batteries need regular
replacement. A third option is a fencer that can be plugged into a home power
grid. This option is only possible if the apiary is located near a home or farm
building to which the beekeeper has power access. Finally, a good fence tester
is a helpful tool to determine the fence is working properly during each apiary
visit.
For more
information about electric fencing please reach out to ATTTA.