Are you struggling with flies constantly bothering your cows, particularly around their faces? Keeping flies off a cow’s face is essential for their well-being and productivity, and flyermedia.net provides a wealth of information to help you achieve this. This article explores effective strategies to protect your cattle from these annoying pests, reducing stress and preventing potential health issues, also providing additional resources. With the right methods, you can ensure a happier, healthier herd, also reduce pinkeye risk.
1. What Problems Do Flies on Cows Face Cause?
Flies on a cow’s face can cause significant problems. Economic losses include decreased weight gain and reduced milk production. Face flies are mechanical vectors of Moraxella bovis, a bacterium responsible for infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis (IBK or pinkeye). Thelazia spp., a nematode eye worm, can be transmitted to horses and cattle by infective face flies. Additionally, face flies can become a nuisance to homeowners if they overwinter indoors.
1.1 How Do Face Flies Affect Cattle Health and Productivity?
Face flies, unlike horn flies, do not feed on blood. Instead, they feed on secretions around the eyes, nostrils, or wounds of animals. This feeding behavior leads to irritation and stress in cattle, which can result in:
- Reduced Grazing Time
- Decreased Weight Gain
- Lower Milk Production
- Increased Risk of Pinkeye
- Transmission of Eye Worms
According to research from Oklahoma State University, fly control can improve weight gain in cattle by up to 0.17 pounds per day. This underscores the economic impact of effective fly management.
1.2 What Diseases Can Flies Transmit to Cows?
Flies can transmit several diseases to cows, including:
- Pinkeye (Infectious Bovine Keratoconjunctivitis – IBK): Face flies are a primary vector for Moraxella bovis, the bacterium that causes pinkeye. Symptoms include excessive tearing, squinting, and, in severe cases, corneal ulcers.
- Eye Worms (Thelazia spp.): Face flies can transmit nematode eye worms to cattle, causing irritation and potential vision impairment.
- Other Bacterial Infections: Flies can carry bacteria from one animal to another, leading to various skin and wound infections.
1.3 Why is Pinkeye a Major Concern for Cattle Producers?
Pinkeye is a major concern because it can lead to significant economic losses due to:
- Reduced Weight Gain: Affected animals may eat less due to discomfort and impaired vision.
- Decreased Milk Production: Lactating cows may produce less milk when suffering from pinkeye.
- Treatment Costs: Veterinary care and medication can be expensive.
- Carcass Downgrades: Severe cases of pinkeye can result in carcass downgrades at slaughter.
Preventing pinkeye is crucial for maintaining the health and profitability of a cattle operation.
2. What Are the Types of Flies That Bother Cows?
Identifying the specific types of flies bothering your cows is essential for implementing targeted control measures. The most common types include face flies, horn flies, stable flies, and house flies.
2.1 Face Flies (Musca autumnalis):
Face flies are non-biting flies that feed on secretions around the eyes, nostrils, and wounds of cattle. They are primarily a nuisance but also act as vectors for pinkeye and eye worms. Face flies spend most of their time off the host, making them harder to control.
2.2 Horn Flies (Haematobia irritans):
Horn flies are small, blood-feeding flies that typically cluster around the shoulders, back, and belly of cattle. They spend their entire adult life on the host, feeding frequently. High horn fly populations can cause significant stress and reduce weight gain.
2.3 Stable Flies (Stomoxys calcitrans):
Stable flies are biting flies that feed on blood, primarily around the legs and belly of cattle. They are strong fliers and can travel long distances from their breeding sites. Stable flies cause painful bites, leading to restlessness and decreased productivity in cattle.
2.4 House Flies (Musca domestica):
House flies are non-biting flies that feed on a variety of organic materials, including manure, garbage, and decaying matter. While they don’t directly bite cattle, they can transmit diseases and contribute to overall stress and discomfort.
2.5 How Do These Flies Differ in Their Behavior and Feeding Habits?
- Face Flies: Feed on secretions, spend most time off the host, vector pinkeye and eye worms.
- Horn Flies: Feed on blood, spend entire adult life on the host, cause stress and reduce weight gain.
- Stable Flies: Feed on blood, bite primarily around legs and belly, cause painful bites and restlessness.
- House Flies: Feed on organic materials, don’t bite directly, transmit diseases and contribute to stress.
Understanding these differences is crucial for choosing the most effective control methods for each type of fly.
2.6 Which Flies Are Most Problematic in Different Regions of the USA?
The prevalence of different fly species can vary depending on the region:
- Southeastern USA: Horn flies and stable flies are typically the most problematic.
- Midwestern USA: Face flies and horn flies are common concerns.
- Western USA: All four fly species can be problematic, depending on local conditions and management practices.
Consulting with local extension agents or veterinarians can provide valuable insights into the specific fly challenges in your area.
3. How to Keep Flies off Cows Face: Self-Treatment Options
Self-treatment options for controlling face flies involve methods that cattle can use themselves to apply insecticide. These include dust bags and insecticide-charged back rubbers, which offer continuous protection with minimal human intervention.
3.1 What Are Forced-Use Dust Bags and How Do They Work?
Forced-use dust bags are insecticide-filled bags placed in gateways or near water and mineral sources, ensuring cattle must pass under them daily. As cattle walk through, the bags dispense insecticide dust onto their faces and backs, providing continuous fly control.
3.2 How to Set Up Forced-Use Dust Bags for Maximum Effectiveness?
To maximize effectiveness, follow these steps:
- Placement: Position dust bags in high-traffic areas like gateways, water sources, or mineral feeders.
- Height: Hang the bags at a height that allows cattle to brush against them as they pass.
- Spacing: Use multiple bags to ensure adequate coverage, especially for larger herds.
- Maintenance: Regularly inspect and refill the bags with insecticide dust as needed.
- Active Ingredients: Use insecticides containing coumaphos, tetrachlorvinphos, permethrin, or zeta-cypermethrin.
3.3 What Are Insecticide-Charged Back Rubbers and How Do They Work?
Insecticide-charged back rubbers consist of oil-soaked materials (like burlap or canvas) suspended in gateways or pastures. As cattle rub against them, the insecticide transfers to their skin, providing fly control. Adding face flips (strips of material hanging down) enhances face fly control.
3.4 How to Maintain Insecticide-Charged Back Rubbers for Consistent Fly Control?
Consistent fly control requires regular maintenance:
- Recharge: Replenish the oil and insecticide mixture regularly, typically every 1-2 weeks, or as needed.
- Placement: Position back rubbers in areas where cattle frequently rub, such as near water sources or loafing areas.
- Inspection: Check for wear and tear and replace materials as needed.
- Active Ingredients: Use insecticides like coumaphos, phosmet, tetrachlorvinphos/dichlorvos combination, permethrin, or permethrin/piperonyl butoxide combinations.
3.5 What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Self-Treatment Options?
| Aspect | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Dust Bags | Continuous application, minimal labor, suitable for large herds. | Requires strategic placement, needs regular refilling, less effective in wet conditions. |
| Back Rubbers | Continuous application, relatively low maintenance, provides good coverage when used with face flips. | Requires regular recharging, can be messy, may not be suitable for all types of cattle management systems. |
4. How to Keep Flies off Cows Face: Pour-On Treatments
Pour-on treatments are insecticides applied along the backline of cattle, providing systemic or contact control of flies. These treatments are easy to administer and offer residual protection, making them a popular choice for cattle producers.
4.1 How Do Pour-On Insecticides Work and How to Apply Them?
Pour-on insecticides are typically formulated with synthetic pyrethroids or macrocyclic lactones. They are absorbed through the skin or remain on the surface, providing control through contact.
Application Steps:
- Read the Label: Always read and follow the label instructions for proper dosage and application.
- Measure Dosage: Use a calibrated applicator to measure the correct dose based on the animal’s weight.
- Apply Along Backline: Pour the insecticide along the backline of the animal, from the withers to the tailhead.
- Avoid Overdosing: Overdosing can lead to toxicity, while underdosing may result in ineffective control.
4.2 What Are the Different Types of Pour-On Insecticides Available?
- Synthetic Pyrethroids: These insecticides provide quick knockdown and good residual control of flies. Examples include permethrin, cypermethrin, and deltamethrin.
- Macrocyclic Lactones: These insecticides control both internal parasites and external parasites like flies. Examples include ivermectin, eprinomectin, and doramectin.
4.3 How Often Should Pour-On Treatments Be Applied for Optimal Fly Control?
The frequency of pour-on treatments depends on the specific product and fly pressure. Generally, treatments are applied every 2 to 4 weeks. Consult the product label for specific recommendations.
4.4 What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Pour-On Treatments?
| Aspect | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Pour-Ons | Easy to apply, provide systemic or contact control, offer residual protection. | May require frequent application, potential for resistance development, some products may have withdrawal periods. |
4.5 What Are the Specific Pour-On Insecticides That Allow Treatment of the Face?
Specific pour-on insecticides that allow treatment of the face include certain pyrethroids like Ultra Boss, Permectrin CDS, and CyLence. However, these may not provide enough residual activity to maintain low fly numbers between applications. Always consult the product label for approved application sites.
5. How to Keep Flies off Cows Face: Ear Tag Treatments
Insecticidal ear tags are a convenient method for controlling flies on cattle. These tags release insecticide over time, providing sustained protection. However, not all ear tags are equally effective against face flies, so choosing the right product is essential.
5.1 How Do Insecticidal Ear Tags Work and How to Apply Them?
Insecticidal ear tags contain insecticides that are slowly released onto the animal’s coat as they move. The insecticide kills flies upon contact.
Application Steps:
- Choose the Right Tag: Select ear tags specifically labeled for face fly control.
- Apply Correctly: Use an ear tag applicator to attach the tags to the middle third of the ear.
- Timing: Apply tags before fly season begins for best results.
- Number of Tags: Apply two tags per animal for optimal control.
5.2 Which Ear Tags Are Most Effective for Controlling Face Flies?
Ear tags such as Corathon, CyGyard, CyLence Ultra, GardStar Plus, Python, and Saber Extra are known to provide reasonable face fly control. Always read the product label to ensure the tags are suitable for your specific needs.
5.3 How Long Do Ear Tags Typically Last and When Should They Be Replaced?
Ear tags typically last for 3 to 5 months. Replace tags when fly populations start to increase, or according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
5.4 What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Ear Tag Treatments?
| Aspect | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Ear Tags | Convenient, provide sustained protection, reduce the need for frequent handling. | Not all tags are effective against face flies, potential for resistance development, require proper application. |
5.5 What Are the Potential Risks of Over-Reliance on Ear Tags?
Over-reliance on ear tags can lead to insecticide resistance in fly populations. To mitigate this risk, rotate different classes of insecticides and use integrated pest management strategies.
6. How to Keep Flies off Cows Face: Spray Treatments
Spray treatments involve applying insecticide solutions directly to cattle, providing immediate control of flies. These treatments can be highly effective when applied correctly and offer flexibility in terms of timing and application.
6.1 How to Properly Apply Insecticide Sprays to Cattle?
Proper application is crucial for effective fly control:
- Choose the Right Sprayer: Use a high-volume, high-pressure sprayer for thorough coverage.
- Mix the Insecticide: Follow label instructions for proper dilution rates.
- Apply Evenly: Spray the entire animal, paying particular attention to the face, legs, and belly.
- Use Appropriate Pressure: Apply at a pressure of 150-200 psi for complete coverage and penetration.
6.2 What Types of Insecticide Sprays Are Available for Fly Control?
- Synthetic Pyrethroids: Provide quick knockdown and good residual control.
- Organophosphates: Offer broad-spectrum control but can be more toxic.
- Spinosyns: Derived from natural sources and offer a safer alternative to synthetic insecticides.
6.3 How Often Should Spray Treatments Be Applied for Best Results?
The frequency of spray treatments depends on the specific product and fly pressure. Generally, treatments are applied every 1 to 3 weeks. Consult the product label for specific recommendations.
6.4 What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Spray Treatments?
| Aspect | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Sprays | Provide immediate control, flexible timing and application, can target specific areas. | Requires frequent handling, may not provide long-lasting protection, can be labor-intensive. |
6.5 What Precautions Should Be Taken When Using Insecticide Sprays?
- Read the Label: Always read and follow label instructions.
- Wear Protective Gear: Wear gloves, eye protection, and a respirator to avoid exposure.
- Avoid Contamination: Prevent insecticide from contaminating water sources or feed.
- Observe Withdrawal Periods: Follow withdrawal periods before slaughter or milking.
7. How to Keep Flies off Cows Face: Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Strategies
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a comprehensive approach to fly control that combines multiple strategies to minimize reliance on chemical insecticides. IPM focuses on preventing fly infestations and using targeted treatments when necessary.
7.1 What Is Integrated Pest Management and Why Is It Important?
IPM is a sustainable approach that integrates various control methods, including cultural practices, biological control, and chemical treatments. It is important because it reduces the risk of insecticide resistance, minimizes environmental impact, and promotes long-term fly control.
7.2 What Cultural Practices Can Help Reduce Fly Populations?
- Manure Management: Regularly remove and properly dispose of manure to eliminate breeding sites.
- Pasture Management: Rotate pastures to prevent manure buildup and reduce fly breeding.
- Sanitation: Keep facilities clean and free of organic debris.
- Drainage: Improve drainage to eliminate standing water, which can serve as breeding sites.
7.3 How Can Biological Control Be Used to Manage Flies?
Biological control involves using natural enemies to control fly populations.
- Fly Parasites: Introduce parasitic wasps that lay their eggs in fly pupae, killing the developing flies.
- Predatory Beetles: Encourage the presence of predatory beetles that feed on fly larvae.
- Nematodes: Use beneficial nematodes that parasitize fly larvae in manure.
7.4 What Role Do Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs) Play in IPM?
Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs) are chemicals that disrupt the development of fly larvae. They are often added to feed or mineral supplements and passed through the manure, preventing fly larvae from reaching adulthood.
7.5 How to Rotate Insecticides to Prevent Resistance?
Rotating insecticides with different modes of action is crucial for preventing resistance. Alternate between pyrethroids, organophosphates, spinosyns, and IGRs to minimize the selection pressure on fly populations.
8. What Are Some Natural and Alternative Methods to Keep Flies off Cows?
Natural and alternative methods for fly control can provide a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach. These methods often involve using natural repellents, essential oils, and other non-chemical strategies.
8.1 What Natural Repellents Can Be Used to Keep Flies Away?
- Essential Oils: Certain essential oils, such as citronella, eucalyptus, and lavender, have repellent properties.
- Diatomaceous Earth: This natural powder can be applied to cattle or used in dust baths to control flies.
- Garlic: Adding garlic to cattle feed can help repel flies.
8.2 How Effective Are Essential Oils in Repelling Flies?
Essential oils can be effective in repelling flies, but their efficacy depends on the concentration and application frequency. Regular application is necessary to maintain their repellent effect.
8.3 What Are the Benefits of Using Diatomaceous Earth for Fly Control?
Diatomaceous earth is a natural and non-toxic alternative to chemical insecticides. It works by dehydrating insects, causing them to die. It can be used as a dust or added to feed.
8.4 Can Garlic in Cattle Feed Help Repel Flies?
Garlic contains compounds that are excreted through the skin and breath, which can help repel flies. While not as effective as chemical insecticides, it can be a useful addition to an IPM program.
8.5 How to Create a Fly-Repellent Environment Naturally?
- Plant Fly-Repelling Plants: Plant herbs like basil, mint, and lavender around barns and pastures.
- Maintain Cleanliness: Regularly clean manure and organic debris to eliminate breeding sites.
- Use Fly Traps: Place fly traps around facilities to capture adult flies.
9. How Does Manure Management Affect Fly Populations?
Effective manure management is critical for controlling fly populations on cattle farms. Manure provides an ideal breeding ground for flies, so proper handling and disposal can significantly reduce fly numbers.
9.1 Why Is Manure Management Important for Fly Control?
Manure provides a moist, nutrient-rich environment for fly larvae to develop. Poor manure management practices can lead to large fly populations that can impact cattle health and productivity.
9.2 What Are the Best Practices for Manure Handling and Disposal?
- Regular Removal: Remove manure from barns and pastures regularly to eliminate breeding sites.
- Composting: Compost manure to kill fly larvae and reduce odor.
- Spreading: Spread manure thinly on pastures to allow it to dry quickly.
- Storage: Store manure in covered piles or lagoons to prevent fly breeding.
9.3 How Does Composting Manure Help Control Flies?
Composting involves breaking down organic matter through microbial activity. The high temperatures generated during composting kill fly larvae and reduce the attractiveness of manure to adult flies.
9.4 What Are the Benefits of Using Manure as Fertilizer?
Manure is a valuable fertilizer that can improve soil health and crop yields. Proper manure management can turn a waste product into a valuable resource.
9.5 How to Prevent Manure Piles From Becoming Fly Breeding Grounds?
- Cover Piles: Cover manure piles with plastic or tarps to prevent flies from accessing them.
- Turn Piles Regularly: Turn manure piles to disrupt fly breeding and promote composting.
- Apply Larvicides: Apply larvicides to manure piles to kill fly larvae.
10. FAQ: How to Keep Flies Off Cows Face
10.1 What is the best way to keep flies off a cow’s face?
The best way involves a combination of strategies: using forced-use dust bags with insecticides like permethrin, applying pour-on treatments such as Ultra Boss directly to the face, and utilizing ear tags specifically designed for face fly control, such as CyLence Ultra. Regularly inspect and rotate these methods to prevent resistance.
10.2 How can I protect my cattle from pinkeye?
Protecting cattle from pinkeye involves controlling face flies, which transmit the bacteria causing the infection. Use fly control methods like insecticide ear tags, pour-on treatments, and dust bags. Also, maintain good pasture management, provide mineral supplementation, and isolate infected animals.
10.3 Are there any natural ways to repel flies from cows?
Yes, natural methods include using essential oils like citronella and eucalyptus, applying diatomaceous earth, and adding garlic to cattle feed. Planting fly-repelling plants like basil and mint around pastures can also help.
10.4 How often should I apply pour-on treatments for fly control?
Pour-on treatments should be applied every 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the specific product and fly pressure. Always follow the label instructions for proper dosage and application frequency.
10.5 What are forced-use dust bags?
Forced-use dust bags are insecticide-filled bags placed in gateways or near water sources, forcing cattle to pass under them daily. As they walk through, the bags dispense insecticide dust onto their faces and backs, providing continuous fly control.
10.6 How do insecticidal ear tags work?
Insecticidal ear tags release insecticide over time, providing sustained protection. Apply two tags per animal, one in each ear, before fly season begins for best results. Replace tags when fly populations start to increase.
10.7 What is Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for fly control?
IPM is a comprehensive approach combining various control methods, including cultural practices, biological control, and chemical treatments. It reduces the risk of insecticide resistance, minimizes environmental impact, and promotes long-term fly control.
10.8 Why is manure management important for fly control?
Manure provides an ideal breeding ground for flies. Proper handling and disposal, such as regular removal, composting, and spreading, can significantly reduce fly populations.
10.9 Can garlic in cattle feed help repel flies?
Yes, garlic contains compounds that are excreted through the skin and breath, which can help repel flies. While not as effective as chemical insecticides, it can be a useful addition to an IPM program.
10.10 What should I do if my cattle develop pinkeye?
If cattle develop pinkeye, isolate affected animals, provide veterinary care, and administer appropriate antibiotics. Implement fly control measures to prevent further transmission.
Keeping flies off cows’ faces is crucial for their health and productivity. By understanding the types of flies, their behavior, and implementing effective control strategies, you can significantly reduce fly populations and improve the well-being of your herd. Flyermedia.net offers additional resources and information to help you manage flies effectively and maintain a healthy, productive cattle operation.
Are you ready to take control of fly infestations and ensure the comfort and health of your cattle? Visit flyermedia.net today to explore our comprehensive guides, expert advice, and latest products for effective fly control. Discover practical tips, in-depth articles, and innovative solutions tailored to your specific needs. Transform your cattle management practices and create a fly-free environment for a happier, healthier herd. Don’t wait—start your journey to better cattle care now. Fly control for every producer.
