Fence, but no fence: Sweden and Denmark to legalize virtual fencing

Sweden and Denmark will soon legalize virtual fencing, a new technology that allows farmers to contain livestock using GPS-enabled collars instead of traditional wire barriers, according to Euronews.

Developed by Norwegian start-up Nofence, the system uses solar-powered collars that emit an audio warning when an animal approaches a digital boundary, followed by a mild electric pulse if the signal is ignored. Over time, animals learn to respond to the sound alone, reducing the need for physical fences or stronger shocks.

Researchers say this technology can make grazing management more flexible as herds could reach areas that are hard to fence, such as wetlands, rocky ground or thick vegetation. Farmers can also save time on maintenance and change boundaries easily using a mobile app.

Studies in Sweden found no increase in animal stress levels compared with traditional electric fences, though experts stress the need for further research to ensure welfare standards are maintained.

Sweden will legalize virtual fencing for cattle and sheep starting next year, with Denmark to follow suit for cattle later next year.