Flies are more than a nuisance to livestock
High humidity levels create the perfect inhabitance for pesky vermin to reproduce and flourish – specifically flies and ticks.
More than 300 species of flies have been recorded in North America. Flies and ticks pose a prominent reoccurring issue among the beef cattle industry, with horse flies and deer flies being the most prominent species affecting animal agriculture in this region.
Horse flies and deer flies feed on their host and, according to a fact sheet University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture Research and Extension, 20 t 30 flies can consume one-third of a pint of the host’s blood within just six hours.
While blood loss is seen as a major issue associated with these flies, they also transmit disease-causing pathogens due to intermediate feeding. Common diseases spread by flies include anaplasmosis, anthrax, and tularemia.
In addition to these issues, the painful bites these insects leave on cattle result in an immediate stop of grazing and forming clusters as cattle seek refuge from the files. This leads to weight loss, lessens milk production and puts cattle in a dangerous position that can lead to stress, fights, and potential injury.
While flies are a serious threat to animal agriculture operations, ticks can also pose similar issues.
In beef cattle, ticks result in loss of condition, failure to gain nutrients properly and, potentially, a severe degree of anemia. Additionally, tick bites are irritating to the host. This results in the infected animal rubbing or scratching the area, which later leads to scabbing or even infection.
Like flies, ticks carry disease and easily transmit them to their host. A common disease they carry is anaplasmosis.
Anaplasmosis is a critical disease seen among mature cattle that almost always leads to mortality and can also be the cause of aborted pregnancies. To avoid the spread of this disease, it is important to treat animals for ticks and flies prior to their inhabitance. To prevent the spread of anaplasmosis, it is recommended to incorporate a treated feed plan or provide mineral blocks.
Luckily, the method of control for these two vermin are very similar. It is recommended to use insecticides as directed by label and to apply it over the animal’s entire body, focusing on the areas with increased infection. It is also recommended to apply frequently as needed.
For more information or questions regarding flies and ticks and proper control practices, contact your local county extension office.
