Farm Animals

Sheep Fly Strike Prevention Strategies

Blowfly strike is a painful and potentially fatal condition in sheep, requiring integrated prevention strategies to protect flock welfare.

Key Facts

Lucilia sericata is the primary blowfly species responsible in the UK
Strike risk peaks from May to October in temperate regions
Dag scoring and regular crutching reduce strike risk substantially
Insect growth regulators provide 8-16 weeks of protection
High-risk sheep include those with fleece soiling or skin lesions

Welfare Considerations

Fly strike causes intense pain, tissue damage, and can be fatal within days if untreated. Prevention through dagging, monitoring, and chemical protection is far more humane than treating established strike.

What You Can Do

Support farms with active fly strike monitoring programmes
Learn to recognise early signs of strike (restlessness, biting at fleece)
Advocate for welfare standards that require fly strike prevention plans