Predator Prevention
Attacks from coyotes, mountain lions, and dogs are among the most common reasons for an emergency veterinary visit or loss of an animal. The most effective way to protect your animals involves a combination of strategies that either deter or intimidate potential predators, along with methods that prevent predators from getting close to your animals in the first place. This guide will outline some of the most effective strategies for preventing predator attacks, emphasizing the importance of using multiple approaches for the best protection.
FENCING
Fencing is one of the most effective ways to protect your animals from predators. A well-built fence creates a physical barrier between your animals and potential threats. Appropriate fencing selection is dictated by the species of animals being enclosed, the size of the pen or pasture, and the cost.
Types of Fencing:
High-Tensile Wire Fencing: This type of fencing is strong and durable. It can be electrified to further deter predators. The wire should be placed in several horizontal strands, with the bottom strand placed a few inches off the ground to prevent smaller animals like coyotes from crawling underneath.
Woven Wire Fencing: This is another option for protecting livestock. Ensure the wire mesh is small enough to prevent animals from slipping their heads or legs through which can lead to injuries.
Electric Fencing: Adding an electric component to your fence (especially at the top and bottom of the primary fence) can help deter predators and keep your livestock from getting caught in or damaging the fence. A properly installed electric fence can deliver a harmless but unpleasant shock to an animal, discouraging it from approaching.
Fencing Tips:
Height: Ensure your fence is at least 6 feet tall to deter larger predators from jumping over.
Buried Bottom: To prevent predator access through digging, bury the bottom of your fence at least 6 to 12 inches underground or add an apron of fencing that extends outward at the base.
Regular Maintenance: Inspect your fencing frequently for damage, especially after storms or other weather events that may weaken fit. Repair any gaps or holes immediately.
HOUSING
Even with strong fencing, your animals need a safe place to sleep and seek shelter from predators. It is important to remember that most attacks happen in the evening or night so having secure housing available to secure your animals in overnight is a great way to prevent attacks when predators are most active.
Types of Housing:
Barns or Sheds: A sturdy barn or shed is one of the safest options for your livestock. It should have doors and windows that close securely, preventing predators from entering.
Covered Pens: If a barn isn't an option, a covered pen made of wire mesh or wooden slats can offer protection. Ensure the roof is solid and secure to prevent predators like mountain lions from climbing over.
Housing Tips:
Nighttime Protection: Bring your sheep or goats inside a barn or pen at night. Coyotes and mountain lions are nocturnal predators, and your animals are more vulnerable during the night.
Safe Entry and Exit: Ensure any gates or doors can be locked securely. Latch them tightly to prevent dogs or coyotes from pushing them open.
Use Food: The most common reason owners give for not penning their animals in at night is that they won’t go in there. Try only feeding a high-value food like grain at night when penning them up and place the feed in the pen. You can shake the tub or ring a bell to get their attention. Typically animals, especially sheep and goats, will come running.
GUARD ANIMALS
Guard animals are incredibly effective at protecting livestock because they provide round-the-clock, natural, instinctive defense against predators. Animals like livestock guardian dogs, llamas, and donkeys have strong protective instincts that drive them to defend their herd from threats. Because guard animals live with the herd and form close bonds, they are always vigilant, constantly monitoring for danger and responding swiftly to any potential threats, often preventing attacks before they can escalate. This makes them an invaluable asset for any livestock owner seeking to ensure their animals' safety.
Types of Guard Animals:
Guard Dogs: Livestock guardian dogs (LGDs) such as Great Pyrenees, Maremma, or Anatolian Shepherds are specifically bred to protect livestock from predators. These dogs are loyal and highly protective, forming strong bonds with the animals they guard. They patrol the pasture and can fend off predators effectively.
Llamas: Llamas are naturally protective and have a strong instinct to guard livestock. They are known to be effective against coyotes, dogs, and even mountain lions. Llamas will often chase off intruders by charging or making loud vocalizations.
Donkeys: Donkeys, especially those that have been raised with sheep or goats, can be a great deterrent against coyotes and dogs. They are aggressive when defending their herd and will chase off smaller predators. Their strong hooves and vocalizations are a significant deterrent.
Guard Animal Tips:
Guardian Dogs: LGDs should be raised alongside your livestock to bond with them. Do not keep LGDs as pets or allow them to roam too far from the herd. They need to stay with the animals they are meant to protect at all times.
Llamas: Ensure your llamas are socialized with your sheep or goats from a young age. They will need time to form bonds with the herd, which enhances their protective instincts. A single, castrated male llama is the best option but females also work well. Intact male llamas can sometimes become aggressive with owners and livestock, even when raised at a young age.
Donkeys: Not all donkeys are natural protectors, so be sure to select one with a protective temperament. Miniature donkeys are often less effective than standard-sized donkeys, so choose accordingly.
DOMESTIC THREATS
Dogs are one of the most common causes of livestock injury, and surprisingly, the most likely culprit is often your own dog. While domestic dogs are typically seen as friendly companions, their natural instincts can sometimes lead them to see livestock as prey or as something to chase and harass. This behavior is especially true for herding breeds, which may instinctively try to round up or control animals like sheep and goats. Even well-meaning pets that have been raised around livestock can develop aggressive tendencies if they are not properly trained or supervised. Additionally, dogs that are left unsupervised may become bored, anxious, or territorial, leading them to attack or injure livestock. Owners must be aware of this risk and take steps to prevent interactions between their dogs and their livestock, ensuring that both animals are safe.
OTHER PREVENTATIVE MEASURES
Keep Feed Secure: Avoid leaving food outside or in open areas where predators could be attracted. This includes livestock feed, hay, and scraps. Secure your feed storage in areas where predators can't access it.
Lighting: Bright, motion-activated lights can scare away nocturnal predators like coyotes and mountain lions. Use lights around your barn or near your fencing.
Noise Deterrents: Some livestock owners use noise-making devices, such as alarms or radios, to discourage predators. This can work for coyotes and dogs, but it may not be as effective against larger predators like mountain lions.
Regular Patrols: It’s important to check on your sheep and goats regularly, especially after dark. Look for any signs of predators (such as tracks, scat, or damaged fencing) and address them immediately.
Alert Systems: Consider installing motion sensor cameras or alarm systems that will alert you when predators are near. This will allow you to take immediate action if needed.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
By combining strong fencing, secure housing, and the use of guard animals, you can significantly reduce the risk of attacks from dogs, coyotes, and mountain lions. The key to success is vigilance and proactive measures—keep your livestock’s safety a top priority and invest time in understanding how best to protect them. With the right precautions, your livestock can live safely and peacefully on your farm.
References
Cebra, C., Anderson, D. E., Tibary, A., Van Saun, R. J., & Johnson, L. W. (2014). Llama and Alpaca Care: Medicine, surgery, reproduction, nutrition, and herd health. Else
D.G. Pugh, P. (2002). Sheep & Goat Medicine. Saunders.
