Livestock and Hazel Hurdles: A Winning Combination for Sustainable Farming

Hazel hurdles can be incredibly versatile and beneficial when used for livestock on a smallholding. They provide a natural, sturdy, and eco-friendly fencing solution that offers numerous advantages for various types of animals, including chickens and other livestock. Here’s how hazel hurdles can be used:

1. Chicken Runs: Hazel hurdles are ideal for creating secure chicken runs. Their woven design prevents chickens from squeezing through or getting tangled in traditional wire fencing. They also allow for better ventilation and visibility, which can be beneficial for the health and well-being of the chickens.
2. Portable Enclosures: Hazel hurdles are relatively lightweight and easy to move, making them perfect for creating portable enclosures for chickens and other small livestock. This mobility allows you to rotate the animals to different grazing areas, promoting better pasture management and preventing overgrazing.
3. Garden Protection: If you allow your chickens to free-range in your garden, you can use hazel hurdles to create temporary protective enclosures around delicate plants or areas you want to keep off-limits to the chickens. This way, you can strike a balance between letting them roam and safeguarding specific garden spaces.
4. Shelter and Windbreaks: Hazel hurdles can be arranged to create windbreaks and sheltered areas for animals during harsh weather conditions. These protective structures offer shade in the summer and provide a shield against the wind and rain in colder seasons.
5. Grazing Dividers: In larger grazing areas, hazel hurdles can be used as temporary or permanent dividers to control the animals’ movement and rotation. This rotational grazing practice promotes healthy pasture growth, prevents overgrazing, and ensures the animals have access to fresh forage.
6. Lambing/Kidding Pens: For smallholdings with sheep or goats, hazel hurdles can be employed to create secure and cozy lambing or kidding pens. These enclosures offer privacy and protection for newborn lambs or kids and their mothers during the critical early stages.
7. Boundary Fencing: Hazel hurdles can be used as boundary fencing for the entire smallholding or specific animal enclosures. Their natural appearance blends harmoniously with the rural landscape and adds a rustic charm to the overall aesthetic of the property.
8. Training Young Animals: When raising and training young animals, hazel hurdles can be used to create safe and contained spaces for socialization and learning.

When using hazel hurdles for livestock, it’s essential to ensure that the hurdles are securely installed and that there are no gaps or loose weaves that could potentially cause harm to the animals. Regular inspection and maintenance will help keep the fencing in good condition and prolong its lifespan. Additionally, integrating hazel hurdles into your smallholding not only benefits your animals but also showcases your commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.