Farm Animals

Sheep Fly Strike Prevention - Blowfly Management

Fly strike (blowfly myiasis) causes extreme suffering in sheep and requires integrated prevention through selection, treatment and monitoring strategies.

Key Facts

Blowfly strike is caused by Lucilia sericata larvae feeding on living sheep tissue
Strike causes intense pain and rapidly progresses to systemic toxaemia if untreated
Dagging, maintaining fleece condition and chemical prevention are the main controls
Preventive products including dicyclanil and cyromazine provide 8-16 weeks protection
Blowfly monitoring forecasts predict high-risk periods to time preventive treatments

Welfare Considerations

Fly strike causes some of the most acute and intense suffering experienced by sheep in UK farming. Timely prevention and daily inspection during high-risk periods are essential.

What You Can Do

Ensure your sheep are dagged and treated preventively before the blowfly season
Use blowfly monitoring services to time your preventive treatments
Check sheep daily during high-risk periods and treat any strikes immediately