MAKKAH: Saudi farmers are increasingly turning to electric fences to protect their farms from animals, particularly baboons. The idea was initially launched to protect livestock, with Saudi farmers visiting New Zealand to determine the effectiveness of electric fences in protecting agricultural lands and livestock pens. After a successful experiment using solar-powered electric fences at the third King Abdulaziz Camel Festival, the technology was expanded to protect farms from baboons. The electric fences meet international standards and safety regulations and have proven to be an effective solution for farmers in Saudi Arabia. (Supplied) More than 400 sites now have electric fences, which use pulsed electric shocks to deter animals from approaching the farms. Farmers have reported increased agricultural production and protection from animal threats since installing the fences. The technology is being used to protect deer pens, livestock, and agricultural crops, as well as to ensure the safety of residents and visitors to tourist areas. The electric fences meet international standards and safety regulations and have proven to be an effective solution for farmers in Saudi Arabia. Nayef Al-Ajmi of the Arabian Talents Co., which specializes in building electric fences, referred to an unfortunate incident that took place several weeks ago in the Al-Shifa area in Taif, in which monkeys kidnapped a child. Had an electric fence been used as a barrier between Al-Sarat and Tihama, it would have prevented the monkeys from climbing to places where tourists and visitors were gathered. Mohammed Al-Sufyani, a farmer in Al-Shifa who installed an electric fence to protect his property, said that baboons constitute a major threat, as they attack in groups, destroying crops and disrupting the work of farmers. Installing the fences will protect farms, resulting in increased production and efficiency.