Farm Animals

Sheep Blowfly Strike Prevention Summer

Flystrike is one of the most painful conditions in sheep farming, causing tissue destruction and death if not detected and treated promptly in warm summer months.

Key Facts

Flystrike occurs when blowfly larvae burrow into sheep skin and begin feeding on living tissue
Lucilia sericata is the primary species causing flystrike in UK sheep
Affected sheep show tail flicking, wool pulling, and eventually collapse if untreated
Insect growth regulators applied to the breech area provide 8-16 weeks of protection
Daily checks in high-risk weather are essential as flystrike can become fatal within 24 hours

Welfare Considerations

Flystrike causes intense pain and rapid tissue destruction. Prevention is highly effective and daily vigilance during risk periods prevents enormous unnecessary suffering.

What You Can Do

Apply preventive products before peak flystrike risk periods in spring and summer
Check sheep daily during warm, humid weather for signs of strike
Remove and treat wool soiling that attracts flies before strike occurs
Seek immediate veterinary treatment for any sheep showing flystrike symptoms