Sheep Welfare and Blowfly Biology

Understanding blowfly biology enables targeted flystrike prevention that protects sheep welfare while minimising unnecessary insecticide use.

Key Facts

Lucilia sericata the greenbottle is the primary UK flystrike species
It is attracted to volatile compounds from bacteria on moist wool
Strike risk is highest between April and October when flies are active
Prevention products work by either killing larvae or repelling egg-laying females
Weather conditions including warm humid conditions increase strike risk significantly

Welfare Considerations

Flystrike prevention informed by blowfly biology enables targeted intervention at highest-risk periods rather than routine prophylactic treatment. Understanding that dagginess and wound moisture attract egg-laying females informs management of these risk factors. Blow fly forecasting systems that predict high-risk periods enable timely application of preventive treatments. Reducing reliance on broad prophylactic treatment through targeted management benefits both sheep welfare and environmental outcomes from reduced insecticide use.

What You Can Do

Follow blow fly forecasting guidance for regional strike risk assessment
Apply preventive treatments strategically based on individual animal risk factors
Manage dagginess through appropriate nutrition and selective breeding
Support welfare standards requiring flystrike prevention plans for sheep farms
Support research into predictive tools enabling targeted flystrike prevention