Farm Animal Welfare

Farm Sheep: Ectoparasite Control Welfare

External parasites including blowfly, tick, lice, and mite cause significant welfare harm in sheep, requiring integrated management strategies.

Key Facts

Sheep blowfly strike affects approximately 80% of UK flocks in some years and is a major welfare crisis
Ticks transmit louping ill and tick-borne fever, causing serious disease in sheep
Lice infestation causes itching, fleece damage, and restlessness
Sheep scab (Psoroptes ovis) is a notifiable mite infestation causing intense pruritus
Integrated approaches combining surveillance, targeted treatment, and prevention are most effective

Welfare Considerations

External parasite infestations cause intense pruritus, pain, and systemic illness that significantly impairs welfare. Blowfly strike in particular progresses rapidly from initial fly strike to deep tissue damage within days if undetected. Daily observation during risk periods, prompt treatment, and appropriate preventive measures are the welfare priorities for external parasite management.

What You Can Do

Observe sheep daily for signs of blowfly strike during warm weather (May-September)
Use preventive treatments where strike risk is high, following veterinary guidance
Implement shearing, crutching, and tail docking to reduce blowfly risk
Treat tick-exposed sheep promptly if tick-borne disease signs develop
Report suspected sheep scab to APHA as it is a notifiable disease