Farm Animal Welfare

Sheep Flystrike Prevention and Welfare

Blowfly strike is a severe and painful condition affecting sheep worldwide that requires proactive management to prevent significant suffering.

Key Facts

Flystrike occurs when blowflies lay eggs in soiled or damaged wool, and larvae hatch and feed on living tissue
Lucilia sericata is the primary causative species in the UK; related species cause problems globally
Affected sheep can die within days without treatment, suffering severe tissue destruction and toxic shock
Crutching, dagging, and chemical preventatives dramatically reduce incidence on farms
Climate change is extending the flystrike season as warmer springs arrive earlier

Welfare Considerations

Flystrike is among the most acutely painful conditions sheep can experience. Larvae feeding on living tissue cause constant agony, and the toxins released cause rapid systemic collapse. Affected animals are often found in a state of profound distress. Prevention through regular inspection, wool management, and preventative treatments is a core welfare responsibility for sheep farmers.

What You Can Do

Inspect sheep daily during the flystrike season, particularly around the breech, shoulders, and feet
Crutch and dag sheep regularly to remove soiled wool that attracts flies
Apply pour-on or injectable preventative treatments before peak flystrike seasons
Treat affected animals immediately — delay significantly worsens outcomes and increases suffering