Flystrike Prevention in Sheep: Welfare-Positive Management

Blowfly strike is one of the most serious welfare conditions affecting sheep in the UK, causing severe pain and death if untreated. Prevention is far more welfare-positive than treatment.

Key Facts

Blowfly strike affects approximately 80% of UK sheep flocks each year
The greenbottle blowfly (Lucilia sericata) is the primary species causing strike in UK sheep
Larvae digest living flesh within 24-48 hours of hatching, causing severe pain and rapid deterioration
High-risk periods are May to October when fly activity is highest

Welfare Considerations

Flystrike causes extreme suffering — maggots create tissue necrosis while the animal remains alive, and systemic toxaemia can cause death within days. The welfare imperative is prevention: regular crutching (dagging) to remove soiled wool, insecticidal dipping or pour-on treatments, and preventative products such as cyromazine (Vetrazin) and spinosad (Extinosad). Daily inspection during high-risk periods allows early detection and treatment. Prompt wound treatment and pain relief are essential when strike occurs.

What You Can Do

Implement preventative blowfly treatment protocols on all sheep farms from April through October
Crutch and dagg sheep regularly to remove soiled wool that attracts flies
Conduct daily inspections of all sheep during the blowfly season for early detection
Treat struck sheep immediately with licensed wound treatment, maggot removal, and appropriate pain relief