Virtual Fence and Electric Fence Have Similar Effect on Cattle Grazing Behavior

Research by scientists at the University of Göttingen found that cattle had similar grazing behavior when contained by virtual fence to when contained by physical electric fence. Researchers say the study puts to rest animal welfare concerns regarding use of virtual fence. This study found that regardless of the system used, the animals were less likely to be found at the edges of the field, moved more slowly there, and tended to use the center of the peasture. In fact, virtual fences led to a more even distribution of the animals across the area. The study’s lead author, Dr. Natascha Grinnell, notes, “Virtual fences are respected by cattle just as reliably as conventional electric fences and are not fundamentally more problematic from an animal welfare perspective. This opens up new opportunities for farmers to manage grazing in a modern and flexible way.”