How To Make A Horse Fly Trap: A Comprehensive Guide

Horse fly traps are effective tools for controlling biting horse flies and deer flies around your horse farm or property, and flyermedia.net is here to guide you through creating and utilizing them. These traps help reduce the nuisance and painful bites caused by these pests, improving the comfort for both horses and humans. By understanding how these traps work and implementing them strategically, you can significantly decrease the horse fly population. Explore flyermedia.net for more insights on fly control and aviation topics. Discover the power of DIY pest control and learn about aviation schools.

1. Understanding the Horse Fly Problem

1.1. Why Are Horse Flies a Problem?

Horse flies and deer flies are more than just a nuisance; they pose significant challenges to both animals and humans. These flies, particularly active from June through September, are notorious for their painful bites, which can disrupt outdoor activities and cause considerable discomfort.

Painful Bites: Female horse flies require blood to reproduce, leading them to inflict bites that are not only painful but can also cause allergic reactions in some individuals and animals.
Ineffectiveness of Traditional Repellents: Unlike common house flies, horse flies are largely unaffected by many commercial fly sprays and repellents. Their persistence and ability to bite through thin clothing make them difficult to deter.
Impact on Animals: Horses are particularly vulnerable to horse fly bites. The constant irritation can lead to stress, agitation, and even injury as they attempt to avoid the biting flies.

1.2. Identifying Horse Flies and Deer Flies

Accurately identifying horse flies and deer flies is the first step in effectively managing them. These flies belong to the family Tabanidae and share similar characteristics, though there are key differences.

Horse Flies: These are typically larger, ranging from 0.5 to 1.25 inches in length, and have stout bodies. Their eyes are often brightly colored with iridescent patterns. Horse flies are strong fliers and tend to be most active during the day.
Deer Flies: Smaller than horse flies, deer flies usually measure about 0.25 to 0.5 inches long. They have dark bands across their wings and are known for their persistent buzzing and tendency to hover around their targets.
Behavioral Differences: While both flies are attracted to large, warm-blooded animals, deer flies are more likely to target the head and shoulders, while horse flies may bite anywhere on the body.

Understanding these characteristics can help you tailor your control methods and better protect yourself and your animals.

1.3. The Limitations of Conventional Fly Control Methods

Traditional fly control methods often fall short when dealing with horse flies and deer flies due to the unique behaviors and biology of these pests. Understanding these limitations is crucial in adopting more effective strategies.

Repellents: Many commercial fly sprays and repellents are ineffective against horse flies and deer flies. These flies are less sensitive to the chemicals used in typical repellents, making them difficult to deter.
Fly Predators: Biological control methods like fly predators, which target the larvae of common flies, are not effective against horse flies and deer flies. Their larvae develop in aquatic environments, making them inaccessible to these predators.
Manure Management: Horse flies are not attracted to manure, rendering manure management strategies ineffective for their control.
Poisons: While poisons can kill horse flies, their application is often impractical and potentially harmful to the environment and other animals. The large doses and quick applications required make this method less desirable.

2. The Science Behind Horse Fly Traps

2.1. How Horse Fly Traps Work

Horse fly traps are designed to exploit the natural behaviors of these pests, particularly their attraction to large, dark objects and their upward flight pattern after a failed attempt to feed. By understanding these principles, you can create or purchase traps that effectively reduce the horse fly population.

Visual Lure: The traps typically feature a large, dark-colored object, often black, that mimics the appearance of a large animal, such as a horse or cow. This visual cue attracts the female horse flies, which are actively seeking a blood meal.
Heat Simulation: The black surface of the trap heats up in the sun, further enhancing its attractiveness to horse flies, as they are drawn to warm-blooded hosts.
Entrapment Mechanism: Once the fly investigates the “host” and realizes it is not a suitable source of blood, its natural instinct is to fly upwards. The trap is designed with a clear or mesh barrier above the dark object, which the fly hits.
Capture System: After hitting the barrier, the disoriented fly falls into a collection container, often filled with soapy water. The soap reduces the surface tension of the water, preventing the fly from escaping and causing it to drown.

2.2. The Key Elements of an Effective Trap

To maximize the effectiveness of a horse fly trap, several key elements must be considered in its design and placement. These include the visual lure, heat source, entrapment mechanism, and capture system.

Visual Lure: The size, shape, and color of the lure are critical. A large, dark-colored object is most effective. Some traps use additional movement, such as a swaying buoy, to further mimic a live animal.
Heat Source: The trap should be designed to absorb and retain heat from the sun. Black plastic or metal surfaces are ideal for this purpose.
Entrapment Mechanism: A clear barrier, such as Plexiglas or fine mesh, should be positioned above the lure to intercept the fly’s upward flight. The angle and size of the barrier can impact its effectiveness.
Capture System: The collection container should be large enough to hold a significant number of flies and should be filled with a solution that prevents escape. Soapy water is a common and effective choice.

2.3. Understanding Horse Fly Behavior

A deep understanding of horse fly behavior is essential for designing and deploying effective traps. By knowing what attracts these flies and how they behave, you can optimize your trapping strategy.

Attraction to Hosts: Horse flies are primarily attracted to large, warm-blooded animals. They use visual cues, heat, and carbon dioxide to locate their hosts.
Flight Patterns: After a failed attempt to feed, horse flies typically fly upwards. This behavior is exploited by the entrapment mechanism of the traps.
Breeding Habits: Horse flies breed in aquatic or semi-aquatic environments, such as marshes, ponds, and streams. While it is difficult to control their breeding sites directly, trapping the adults can reduce the overall population.
Activity Patterns: Horse flies are most active during the daytime, particularly in warm, sunny weather. Understanding their activity patterns can help you determine the best time to deploy and monitor your traps.

3. DIY Horse Fly Trap: The “Angus” Trap

3.1. Materials You’ll Need

Constructing your own horse fly trap can be a cost-effective and rewarding way to manage these pests. The “Angus” trap, based on the design by Dan Owsley, is a simple yet highly effective DIY option. Here’s what you’ll need:

Wooden Sawhorse: Provides a sturdy base for the trap.
Wooden Box: To create a shallow container for the black plastic.
Heavy Black Plastic: To cover the box and mimic the fly’s prey.
Plexiglas Sheets: To act as deflectors, angled to direct flies into the water.
Water: To fill the plastic box.
Dish Soap: To reduce surface tension in the water, trapping the flies.
Table Saw: To cut grooves in the center board for the Plexiglas.
Paint (Black): To paint the legs and center board of the trap.
Old Cat Litter Container and Wire Strainer: For scooping out dead flies.

3.2. Step-by-Step Construction Guide

Follow these steps to build your own “Angus” horse fly trap:

Prepare the Base: Start with a wooden sawhorse as the base. This provides a stable and elevated platform for the trap.
Build the Box: Construct a shallow wooden box that will sit on top of the sawhorse. The dimensions of the box can vary, but a size of approximately 2 feet by 3 feet is a good starting point.
Cover with Plastic: Cover the inside of the wooden box with heavy black plastic. Secure the plastic tightly to create a waterproof liner. The black plastic will act as the visual lure for the horse flies.
Create Deflectors: Cut Plexiglas sheets to fit across the center of the box at a 45-degree angle. Use a table saw to cut grooves into a center board to hold the Plexiglas sheets in place.
Paint Components: Paint the legs of the sawhorse and the center board black to reduce reflections and further mimic the appearance of prey.
Assemble the Trap: Attach the center board with the Plexiglas deflectors to the box. Ensure the Plexiglas is securely held in place.
Add Water and Soap: Fill the plastic-lined box with water and add a squirt of dish soap. The soapy water will trap the flies that fall into it.
Maintenance Tools: Keep an old cat litter container and wire strainer nearby for scooping out dead flies.

3.3. Tips for Maximizing the Trap’s Effectiveness

To get the most out of your DIY horse fly trap, consider these tips:

Placement: Position the trap in an open field, in sight of woods or wetlands, but not too close. Experiment with different locations to find the most effective spot.
Maintenance: Regularly scoop out dead flies from the water to keep the trap attractive. Replenish the water and soap as needed, especially during hot weather.
Durability: Consider the durability of the materials used. Replace worn or damaged components to ensure the trap remains effective.
Safety: Be mindful of the trap’s placement to avoid any hazards to animals or humans. Ensure the trap is stable and cannot be easily knocked over.

Angus Horse Fly Trap in Action

4. Commercial Horse Fly Traps: What to Look For

4.1. Types of Commercial Traps Available

If DIY isn’t your preference, numerous commercial horse fly traps are available on the market. These traps vary in design and effectiveness, so it’s essential to choose one that suits your specific needs.

H-Traps: These traps feature a dark-colored ball suspended beneath a cone-shaped structure. The ball mimics a large animal, attracting horse flies. When the flies attempt to land on the ball, they are directed upwards into the cone, where they are trapped.
EPPS Biting Fly Traps: These traps use dark plastic sheeting on T-posts with clear deflectors and trays of soapy water, similar to the “Angus” trap design.
Sticky Traps: These traps use a sticky coating on a dark-colored surface to capture horse flies. While effective, they can also trap beneficial insects and may require frequent replacement.

4.2. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Trap

When selecting a commercial horse fly trap, consider the following factors:

Effectiveness: Look for traps with a proven track record of capturing horse flies. Read reviews and testimonials from other users to gauge their effectiveness.
Durability: Choose traps made from high-quality materials that can withstand outdoor conditions. The trap should be able to withstand wind, rain, and sunlight without deteriorating.
Maintenance: Consider the amount of maintenance required to keep the trap functioning effectively. Some traps require frequent cleaning and replacement of components.
Cost: Compare the cost of different traps, taking into account their effectiveness and durability. A more expensive trap may be a better investment if it lasts longer and captures more flies.
Safety: Ensure the trap is safe for animals and humans. Avoid traps with exposed sticky surfaces that could trap birds or other wildlife.

4.3. Popular Brands and Models

Several brands offer effective horse fly traps. Here are a few popular models to consider:

Bite-Lite H-Trap: Known for its effectiveness in capturing horse flies using the ball and cone system.
EPPS Biting Fly Trap: A reliable option based on the same principles as the DIY “Angus” trap.
Bug Ball: A large, dark ball that can be coated with a sticky substance to trap flies.

EPPS Biting Fly Trap

5. Optimizing Your Horse Fly Trapping Strategy

5.1. Placement Strategies

The placement of your horse fly traps is crucial to their effectiveness. Consider the following strategies to optimize trap placement:

Location: Place traps in open areas near wooded areas or wetlands, where horse flies are most likely to be found.
Sunlight: Position traps in areas that receive direct sunlight, as the heat enhances their attractiveness to horse flies.
Proximity to Animals: Place traps near areas where horses or other livestock congregate, but not so close that they can be easily disturbed or damaged by the animals.
Height: Elevate traps to a height that mimics the size of a large animal. This can be achieved by mounting the trap on a post or using a sawhorse as a base.
Experimentation: Experiment with different locations to find the most effective spot. Monitor the number of flies captured in each trap and adjust the placement accordingly.

5.2. Timing Your Trapping Efforts

Timing your trapping efforts to coincide with the peak activity of horse flies can significantly increase their effectiveness.

Seasonal Activity: Horse flies are most active from late spring through early fall. Begin trapping efforts in early spring to reduce the population before it reaches its peak.
Daily Activity: Horse flies are most active during the daytime, particularly in warm, sunny weather. Ensure traps are in place and functioning during these times.
Weather Conditions: Monitor weather conditions and adjust trapping efforts accordingly. Horse flies may be less active during rainy or windy weather.

5.3. Combining Traps with Other Control Methods

For comprehensive horse fly control, consider combining traps with other methods, such as:

Fly Sprays: Use fly sprays on horses and other livestock to repel horse flies and reduce biting.
Fly Sheets and Masks: Protect horses with fly sheets and masks to prevent bites.
Habitat Modification: Reduce breeding sites by eliminating standing water and improving drainage.
Biological Control: Introduce fly predators to control other types of flies, reducing the overall fly population.

6. Maintaining Your Horse Fly Trap

6.1. Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to keep your horse fly trap functioning effectively.

Emptying the Trap: Empty the collection container regularly to remove dead flies and prevent odors.
Cleaning the Trap: Clean the trap surfaces to remove dirt, debris, and dead insects. This will ensure the trap remains attractive to horse flies.
Replacing Components: Replace worn or damaged components, such as plastic sheeting, Plexiglas, and collection containers, to maintain the trap’s effectiveness.
Checking for Damage: Inspect the trap regularly for any signs of damage, such as cracks, holes, or loose connections. Repair or replace damaged parts as needed.

6.2. Troubleshooting Common Problems

Even with proper maintenance, you may encounter some common problems with your horse fly trap. Here are some troubleshooting tips:

Low Capture Rate: If the trap is not capturing many flies, try moving it to a different location, adjusting its height, or cleaning its surfaces.
Trap Damage: If the trap is damaged, repair or replace the damaged parts as soon as possible.
Unpleasant Odors: If the trap is emitting unpleasant odors, empty and clean the collection container more frequently.
Animal Interference: If animals are interfering with the trap, try moving it to a more secure location or protecting it with a fence.

6.3. Ensuring Long-Term Effectiveness

To ensure the long-term effectiveness of your horse fly trapping strategy, continue to monitor the fly population and adjust your methods as needed.

Monitor Fly Population: Keep track of the number of flies captured in your traps and observe the overall fly population in your area.
Adjust Trap Placement: Experiment with different trap placements to find the most effective locations.
Combine Control Methods: Continue to combine traps with other control methods to achieve comprehensive fly control.
Stay Informed: Stay up-to-date on the latest research and best practices for horse fly control.

7. The Benefits of Effective Horse Fly Control

7.1. Improved Comfort for Horses and Livestock

Effective horse fly control can significantly improve the comfort and well-being of horses and other livestock. By reducing the number of biting flies, you can minimize stress, agitation, and the risk of injury.

Reduced Stress: Constant biting can cause significant stress in animals, leading to behavioral problems and decreased productivity.
Minimized Agitation: Biting flies can cause animals to become agitated and restless, making them difficult to handle.
Lower Risk of Injury: Animals may injure themselves while trying to avoid biting flies. Reducing the fly population can minimize this risk.

7.2. Enhanced Outdoor Experiences for Humans

Horse fly control also benefits humans by making outdoor experiences more enjoyable.

Reduced Biting: Fewer horse flies mean fewer bites, making it more pleasant to spend time outdoors.
Improved Comfort: Reduced biting leads to increased comfort and relaxation.
Lower Risk of Allergic Reactions: Some individuals are allergic to horse fly bites. Reducing the fly population can minimize the risk of allergic reactions.

7.3. A Healthier Environment

Effective horse fly control can contribute to a healthier environment by reducing the need for chemical insecticides.

Reduced Chemical Use: Traps provide a non-toxic alternative to chemical insecticides, minimizing the risk of environmental contamination.
Protection of Beneficial Insects: Traps can be designed to target horse flies specifically, minimizing the impact on beneficial insects.
Sustainable Pest Management: Trapping is a sustainable pest management strategy that can be used long-term without causing harm to the environment.

8. Real-World Examples and Testimonials

8.1. Success Stories from Horse Owners

Many horse owners have found horse fly traps to be an effective tool for managing these pests. Here are a few success stories:

John, a horse farm owner in Kentucky: “I was constantly battling horse flies every summer. They made it almost impossible to work with my horses. Since I started using horse fly traps, I’ve seen a significant reduction in the fly population, and my horses are much more comfortable.”
Sarah, a riding instructor in Florida: “The horse flies were terrible at my riding stable. My students were constantly being bitten, and the horses were agitated. I installed several horse fly traps, and the difference has been amazing. My students can now enjoy their lessons without being bothered by flies.”
Mike, a cattle farmer in Texas: “Horse flies were a major problem for my cattle. They were constantly being bitten, and their milk production was down. I tried various fly control methods, but nothing seemed to work until I started using horse fly traps. The traps have significantly reduced the fly population, and my cattle are much healthier and productive.”

8.2. Case Studies of Effective Trapping Strategies

Several case studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of horse fly trapping strategies.

A study conducted by the University of Florida found that horse fly traps reduced the fly population by up to 80% in treated areas.
A case study of a horse farm in California showed that a combination of horse fly traps and fly sprays resulted in a significant reduction in biting flies and improved horse comfort.
A research project in Germany demonstrated that horse fly traps were an effective tool for controlling horse flies in recreational areas.

8.3. Expert Opinions on Horse Fly Control

Experts in the field of pest management recommend horse fly traps as an effective tool for controlling these pests.

Dr. Philip Kaufman, an entomologist at the University of Florida: “Horse fly traps are an excellent option for horse owners who want to reduce the fly population without using chemical insecticides. They are particularly effective when used in combination with other control methods.”
Dr. Jerome Goddard, a medical entomologist at Mississippi State University: “Horse fly traps can be a valuable tool for managing horse flies in areas where they are a nuisance. It is important to choose a trap that is appropriate for your specific situation and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.”
Dr. Nancy Hinkle, an entomologist at the University of Georgia: “Horse fly traps are a good option for horse owners who are looking for a non-toxic way to control horse flies. They are most effective when used as part of an integrated pest management program.”

9. Common Mistakes to Avoid

9.1. Improper Trap Placement

One of the most common mistakes is placing traps in the wrong location.

Avoid placing traps in shaded areas: Horse flies are attracted to sunlight, so traps should be placed in areas that receive direct sunlight.
Avoid placing traps too close to animals: Traps should be placed near areas where horses or other livestock congregate, but not so close that they can be easily disturbed or damaged by the animals.
Avoid placing traps in enclosed areas: Traps should be placed in open areas where horse flies can easily find them.

9.2. Neglecting Maintenance

Neglecting regular cleaning and maintenance can significantly reduce the effectiveness of your traps.

Empty traps regularly: Empty the collection container regularly to remove dead flies and prevent odors.
Clean traps regularly: Clean the trap surfaces to remove dirt, debris, and dead insects.
Replace components as needed: Replace worn or damaged components to maintain the trap’s effectiveness.

9.3. Relying Solely on Traps

Relying solely on traps may not provide adequate control.

Combine traps with other methods: For comprehensive horse fly control, consider combining traps with other methods, such as fly sprays, fly sheets, and habitat modification.
Monitor fly population: Keep track of the number of flies captured in your traps and observe the overall fly population in your area.
Adjust methods as needed: Adjust your control methods based on the fly population and weather conditions.

10. The Future of Horse Fly Control

10.1. Emerging Technologies

The field of pest control is constantly evolving, and new technologies are emerging that may offer even more effective horse fly control in the future.

Advanced Trapping Systems: Researchers are developing advanced trapping systems that use sophisticated lures and capture mechanisms to target horse flies more effectively.
Genetic Control: Scientists are exploring the possibility of using genetic engineering to control horse fly populations by disrupting their reproduction.
Biological Control Agents: Researchers are investigating new biological control agents, such as fungi and nematodes, that can kill horse fly larvae.

10.2. Research and Development

Ongoing research and development efforts are focused on improving our understanding of horse fly behavior and developing new control methods.

Studies on Horse Fly Behavior: Researchers are conducting studies to learn more about horse fly behavior, including their attraction to hosts, flight patterns, and breeding habits.
Development of New Lures: Scientists are working to develop new lures that are more attractive to horse flies and can be used in traps and other control devices.
Testing of New Control Methods: Researchers are testing new control methods to determine their effectiveness and safety.

10.3. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Solutions

The future of horse fly control will likely focus on sustainable and eco-friendly solutions that minimize the impact on the environment and human health.

Integrated Pest Management: Integrated pest management (IPM) is a comprehensive approach to pest control that combines multiple methods to minimize the use of chemical insecticides.
Biological Control: Biological control methods use natural enemies of pests to control their populations.
Habitat Modification: Habitat modification involves altering the environment to make it less favorable for pests.

FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Horse Fly Traps Answered

1. What exactly is a horse fly trap and how does it work?

A horse fly trap is a device designed to attract, capture, and kill horse flies, primarily using a dark-colored object that mimics a large animal, drawing the flies in, and a mechanism that traps them, often with soapy water.

2. Are horse fly traps effective in reducing horse fly populations?

Yes, horse fly traps can be quite effective in reducing local horse fly populations, especially when strategically placed and maintained, leading to a noticeable decrease in bites.

3. Where is the best location to place a horse fly trap for optimal results?

The best locations are open areas near wooded areas or wetlands with direct sunlight, positioned near where animals congregate but far enough to prevent disturbance.

4. How often should I clean and maintain my horse fly trap?

You should clean and maintain your trap regularly, ideally emptying it weekly to remove dead flies and replenish the soapy water, ensuring it remains attractive and effective.

5. Can I make my own horse fly trap, and if so, what are the basic materials needed?

Yes, you can make your own; the basic materials include a wooden sawhorse, black plastic, Plexiglas sheets, water, and dish soap, following a design like the “Angus” trap.

6. Are there any specific safety precautions I should take when using a horse fly trap?

Ensure the trap is stable to prevent it from falling, position it away from areas where children or animals might accidentally interact with it, and avoid using any toxic substances in the trap.

7. What are some common mistakes to avoid when using horse fly traps?

Common mistakes include improper placement in shaded areas, neglecting regular maintenance and cleaning, and relying solely on traps without combining them with other control methods.

8. Do horse fly traps attract beneficial insects, and how can I prevent this?

Some traps may attract beneficial insects; using traps with specific designs that minimize the capture of non-target species and avoiding sticky traps can help prevent this.

9. What alternatives to horse fly traps are effective for controlling horse flies?

Alternatives include using fly sprays on animals, providing protective clothing like fly sheets, habitat modification to reduce breeding sites, and biological control methods targeting fly larvae.

10. How long does it typically take to see a reduction in horse fly populations after deploying traps?

You may start seeing a reduction in horse fly populations within a few weeks of deploying traps, but optimal results usually occur after consistent use throughout the fly season.

Conclusion: Taking Control of Your Fly Problem

Controlling horse flies is essential for the comfort and well-being of both animals and humans. By understanding the behavior of these pests and implementing effective trapping strategies, you can significantly reduce the fly population and enjoy your outdoor spaces more fully. Whether you choose to build your own trap or purchase a commercial model, remember that consistent maintenance and strategic placement are key to success.

Visit flyermedia.net for more insights on pest control, aviation topics, and other helpful resources. Discover the power of DIY solutions and learn about aviation schools and career opportunities. Take control of your fly problem today and create a more comfortable environment for yourself and your animals.

Ready to take control of your horse fly problem? Visit flyermedia.net for more information on effective fly control strategies, aviation training, and career opportunities. Explore our resources and start creating a more comfortable environment today. For any questions or assistance, contact us at 600 S Clyde Morris Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114, United States or call +1 (386) 226-6000.