Warm weather has arrived, bringing with it the nuisance of flying biting insects. These pests not only cause annoyance but also pose a significant economic burden on U.S. livestock producers. Estimates suggest that flies cost livestock producers between $700,000 and $1 million annually. Given the current high livestock prices, it is more crucial than ever to prioritize animal performance and mitigate the negative effects of flies.
Flies have a direct impact on livestock performance by hampering weight gains, milk production, and feed utilization. The primary flies of concern in livestock operations are Horn flies, Face flies, and Stable flies. Additionally, horse flies, deer flies, ticks, and mosquitoes can also be bothersome pests in this context.
Understanding the different types of flies and their characteristics is essential for effective control:
- Horn flies are bloodsucking insects that reside on the backs of livestock, feeding 20 to 40 times per day. Economic thresholds are exceeded when populations surpass 200 flies per animal, which often occurs during the summer. Female adults leave the hosts only to lay eggs in fresh manure. Depending on weather conditions, the complete life cycle from egg to adult can be as short as 10 to 20 days.
- Stable flies are another significant concern as they also feed on the blood of livestock. They typically target the legs and belly regions, causing considerable reductions in animal performance. The painful bites from these flies often lead to livestock stomping their feet, gathering in groups, or seeking refuge in streams and ponds. The adult females prefer to lay eggs in wet, moist hay or straw mixed with manure, commonly found in feedlots or winter hay feeding areas.
- Face flies, although not biting insects, feed on livestock secretions from the eye, mouth, and nose. Their feeding behavior can result in damage to eye tissues, increasing the risk of infection and diseases such as pink eye. Female face flies lay their eggs in fresh manure piles found in pastures.
To effectively control fly populations, several strategies should be employed:
- Sanitation: Maintaining cleanliness in and around feedlots and buildings is crucial. By eliminating breeding locations, the effectiveness of other control measures is maximized.
- Larvicides: These can be applied directly to fly breeding sites in pastures and feedlots. Alternatively, larvicides can be used as feed additives or incorporated into mineral mixtures.
- Identification and Insecticides: Correctly identifying the fly species present allows for targeted control. Insecticides can be applied directly to livestock using various methods and products, including fly tags, direct sprays, misters, pour-on applications, self-application devices (such as dust bags or oilers), walk-through traps, and advanced gun devices that shoot insecticide capsules.
To ensure consistent use of self-applied applicators by livestock, strategically place them along paths to water or mineral sources. Always read and follow instructions and limitations on insecticide labels, including withdrawal periods. Implementing an integrated fly control program is crucial to avoid resistance issues. Effective fly control measures minimize economic losses, optimize animal performance, and provide a more comfortable environment for livestock during summer.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-prill
Categories: Ohio, Livestock