Fly strike (myiasis) is a painful and potentially fatal condition in sheep that is largely preventable through appropriate management, yet it remains a major welfare problem in many flocks globally.
Fly strike causes acute and severe suffering that progresses rapidly if not detected. Larvae consuming living tissue cause intense pain, and affected sheep show characteristic behaviour including separation from the flock, tail wagging, and nibbling at affected areas. Cases can progress to systemic infection and death within days. Prevention through breech crutching, dagging, wool condition management, and timed chemical prophylaxis significantly reduces incidence. Early detection through regular flock inspection is essential for minimising suffering duration when prevention fails. The welfare case against mulesing without pain relief is strong, and alternatives including selective breeding and improved prevention management are available.