On day two, all 12 gilts were placed together into the paddock and behaviour recorded over four x one hour sessions spread throughout the day. Neither the shock receiver nor the pair mate exhibited any reduction in heart rate response over successive strikes. The magnitude of the response was positively correlated with stage of gestation. On day two, gilts spent more time walking in the morning and more time rooting and grazing in the afternoon. The results indicate that gilts initially direct exploratory behaviour towards the electric fence, but after receiving shocks, begin to avoid it.
Most gilts do touch the fence more than once, contradicting beliefs expressed by many farmers.
Heart rate responses do not decrease over subsequent fence strikes, highlighting the aversive nature of an electric shock. The relationship between heart rate responses and stage of gestation indicate that exposure for the first time is best carried out when non-pregnant or in early gestation. A behavioural and physiological study of the responses of inexperienced gilts to electric fences. The behavioural and heart rate responses of inexperienced gilts to electric fencing.