Virtual fencing technology tested at French farm

The Borde Basse farm in Haute-Garonne, France, is testing avant-garde virtual fencing technology to manage livestock without the need for physical posts or wires. Since March, the Campus Pyrénées Cominges application site has been trialing two different systems: one from the Norwegian company Nofence and another from the New Zealand-based Gallagher.

The technology utilizes collars equipped with sensors. When an animal approaches the virtual boundary, it receives a series of graduated warnings, starting with sound cues. If the animal continues to move toward the perimeter, it receives electrical stimulations. The system also includes a smartphone alarm to alert farmers in the event of an escape.

According to farm director Eric Deboeuf, the goal is to allow animals to self-correct rather than relying on excessive shocks. Early results indicate rapid learning among the test flock of sheep, with electrical stimulations dropping from 60 on the first day to just four by the sixth day. While the system shows promise, some precision issues have been noted near trees and buildings.