Why Are Fly Larvae Always on Cows?
WouterThe question of why are flies always on cows may seem trivial, but flies are very serious and often cause significant problems for cattle. They are not only unsightly and irritating, but they can also spread harmful diseases to the cattle. Fortunately, there are several ways to combat the problem. Commercial cattle farmers use chemical repellants, but homesteaders can employ more environmentally-friendly methods.
To control flies, producers should ensure that their pens are clean and free of waste. They should also ensure that they do not leave standing water in their pens. Keeping these pens clean is critical, especially during an overly wet year. Producers should also regularly check pens for signs of infestation and treat them appropriately.
While there are some natural methods of controlling flies, the most effective way to effectively keep them from attacking cows is by using fly tags. Fly tags are placed in the cow’s ears, where they are worn like earings. These tags will keep flies off the cow for a few months. They are usually placed in the summer, when flies are most active, and are removed at the end of fall.
Moreover, flies also thrive on cattle manure and hay residues. These two are the perfect breeding grounds for fly larvae, so it is vital to thoroughly clean them. However, this will not solve the problem altogether, but it will definitely improve the cattle’s living conditions and reduce the pressure on flies.
