In poultry production, few topics carry as much quiet importance as migration fencing. While most discussions center around ventilation, litter management or feed efficiency, internal fencing is one of the most practical tools growers use to manage bird movement and protect flock welfare. What may look like a simple barrier is actually a key piece of day to day house management.
This was recently highlighted in a conversation with Lee Shepard at the Southern Farm Show, where he shared a unique migration fence system he discovered and brought to the U.S. market.
Migration Fencing Is More Than a Divider
Migration fencing is designed to control bird movement within the house, particularly during early growth stages. Properly installed fencing helps prevent piling, limits overcrowding near water or feed lines and improves overall bird distribution.
But not all fencing systems are built the same. Traditional designs can be bulky, difficult to move and sometimes create hazards if birds become trapped underneath or around rigid framing.
Designed With Practicality in Mind
One of the standout features of this system is its simplicity. Rather than relying on heavy framed panels, the design uses lightweight PVC sections and brackets. Growers purchase standard U.S. PVC locally and cut it to fit their house layout. Sections are built to measure between walls, water lines and feed lines, then connected together for a custom fit.
Because the system uses common schedule 20 or schedule 40 PVC, replacement parts are easy to source. If a section is damaged, growers can simply replace the PVC rather than the entire unit.
Ease of Installation and Removal
Migration fencing is most effective when it can be adjusted easily. This design focuses heavily on portability. Sections connect together and can be lifted in groups, making cleanout and bird placement more efficient.
The lightweight structure also allows growers to store sections overhead or along braces when not in use, reducing clutter inside the house.
Built for Bird Safety
Bird safety and welfare remain central concerns in any house setup. This fencing system is approximately 16 inches tall, meeting common integrator requirements to prevent birds from jumping over.
Equally important, the smooth PVC and rounded polypropylene brackets eliminate sharp edges. The design prevents chicks from slipping underneath while avoiding rigid framing that could trap birds. Airflow is not restricted, maintaining environmental consistency within the house.
Practical Guidelines for Using Migration Fencing
Like any management tool, fencing works best when used intentionally. Practical considerations include:
Measure and Customize
Build sections to fit the exact spacing between walls, water lines and feed lines to ensure tight, uniform placement.
Support Against Warping
Use center brackets every few feet to prevent PVC from bending or warping in heat.
Ensure Proper Height
Maintain a height consistent with integrator guidelines to prevent birds from crossing over.
Prioritize Smooth Materials
Avoid sharp edges or rigid frames that could injure birds. Rounded materials improve welfare and reduce management issues.
Plan for Storage
Develop a storage solution inside the house so sections can be removed and reinstalled quickly between flocks.
Small Design Choices, Big Management Impact
Migration fencing may not be the most talked about component of poultry production, but its impact on bird distribution, safety and daily workflow is significant. When fencing is lightweight, customizable and easy to maintain, it becomes less of a burden and more of a management asset.
By focusing on flexibility, simplicity and bird safety, growers can improve flock control without overcomplicating their system.
Contact Us
If you have questions about migration fencing or flock management tools, contact Allen at allen@southlandorganics.com. Until next time!
