Blowfly strike is an intensely painful and potentially fatal condition in sheep caused by fly larvae feeding on live tissue. Prevention and rapid treatment are essential welfare interventions.
Blowfly strike is among the most acutely painful conditions in sheep farming. The progression from early infestation to severe tissue destruction occurs within hours to days, and affected sheep experience intense pain from larval feeding. The smell and irritation cause profound behavioural disruption. Mortality without treatment is high. The welfare case for preventive treatment — using licensed products at appropriate intervals — is strong, but concerns about organophosphate use have led to increased interest in non-chemical prevention through selective breeding, pasture management, and fly monitoring. Rapid identification of struck sheep through daily checks is essential during high-risk periods.