Livestock

Sheep Welfare and Ectoparasite Management

Ectoparasites including blowfly, lice, mites and ticks cause significant welfare problems in sheep that are largely preventable through integrated pest management combining monitoring, husbandry and targeted treatment.

Key Facts

Blowfly strike affects an estimated 80% of UK flocks annually in susceptible seasons
Lice cause intense pruritus leading to wool damage, scratching and weight loss
Mange mites cause severe skin irritation and are notifiable in some forms
Integrated pest management reduces reliance on ectoparasiticides while maintaining effective control

Welfare Considerations

Ectoparasites cause significant acute and chronic welfare problems in affected sheep. Blowfly strike in particular causes intense suffering and can be fatal if undetected. Prevention through regular inspection, risk assessment and targeted treatment is far preferable to reactive management of established infestations. Clinical signs are often subtle until severe infestation is established.

What You Can Do

Implement a flock health plan with your vet that includes ectoparasite risk assessment and prevention
Inspect all sheep at least twice weekly during the fly season from April to October
Use blowfly prevention products at appropriate timing rather than reactively following strike
Support development and adoption of breed selection for resistance to ectoparasite infestation