The Province of Drenthe conducted a practical test with mobile wolf-resistant fences last autumn and winter. These fences can be quickly set up and taken down with a quad. They are particularly useful for livestock owners who need to move their animals regularly. In total, 114 fences were placed at 11 livestock owners, protecting over 10,000 animals from wolf attacks. The aim of the trial was to investigate whether these mobile fences work effectively against wolf attacks and how they can be best utilized.

The results are positive. From October 2024 to May 2025, there was only one wolf attack within the placed fences. Research showed that at that time the voltage on the fence was too low, probably due to a weak battery. The attack was therefore explainable.

Success Factors and Lessons Learned

An important part of the success is the proper placement of the bottom wire. This must hang low to the ground (maximum 20 centimeters) so that the wolf cannot go underneath. It is also important that the grass under the fence is well mowed. Otherwise, it touches the wire and power is lost. By mowing the grass beforehand and hanging the wire at the correct height, most fences remained well charged during the trial period.

There are also lessons to be learned from the practical test. Not all materials from livestock owners proved suitable. Many fence posts had the wire eyes at the wrong height, causing the bottom wire to hang too high. It also turned out to be difficult to properly manage the power supply in all places. In dry soil, grounding the system does not always work well. A lot has been learned during the trial about which materials work best.

Deputy Egbert van Dijk:

“Thanks to this practical test, we have gained important knowledge. It is good to see that mobile wolf-resistant fences can be effective, provided they are placed and maintained correctly. We will continue to work with livestock owners to find practical solutions to protect their livestock from wolves.”

Follow-Up Research

The trial has provided valuable insights. Livestock owners who previously had no confidence in movable wolf-resistant fences have now experienced that they do indeed provide protection. However, it is essential that they are placed and maintained properly. Therefore, the Province of Drenthe is considering a follow-up to the practical test, which will also test another fencing method. It is also being looked at whether the communication regarding the application, placement, inspection, and removal of the fences can be automated.