Horse fly control is crucial for maintaining the well-being of livestock and humans alike. Are you looking for the best methods on How To Kill A Horse Fly and prevent them from biting? At flyermedia.net, we’ll explore practical and effective strategies to manage these pests, ensuring a more comfortable and safer environment with horse fly control.
Discover the secrets to horse fly traps, insecticidal treatments, and preventative measures. Let’s dive in and find out how you can take back control from these biting pests!
1. Understanding Horse Flies: Biology and Behavior
To effectively manage horse flies, it’s important to understand their biology and behavior. This knowledge will help you tailor your control strategies for maximum impact.
1.1. What Are Horse Flies?
Horse flies (family Tabanidae) are large, agile insects known for their painful bites. Female horse flies require blood to produce eggs, making them aggressive biters of cattle, horses, and humans.
1.2. The Horse Fly Life Cycle
Most Missouri horse flies have aquatic larval stages. The mother flies affix their eggs to vegetation near ponds and streams, and the hatching larvae drop into the mud or water. They live as predators for up to several years, depending on the species. When they are ready to pupate, they move from the water to terrestrial sites and generally emerge synchronously.
1.3. Horse Fly Behavior and Habitat
Horse flies are adept at locating warm-blooded animals, with cattle, horses, and similar large creatures being favored hosts. They are often found near bodies of water such as swimming pools, streams, and ponds.
2. The Threat of Horse Flies: Why Control is Necessary
Horse flies are more than just a nuisance; they can pose significant threats to animal health and productivity. Understanding these risks highlights the importance of effective control measures.
2.1. Pain and Annoyance
The bites from female horse flies are painful and can cause considerable annoyance to livestock and humans. This discomfort can lead to stress and reduced productivity in animals.
2.2. Blood Loss
When horse fly populations are large, their feeding pressure can result in economically significant blood loss in cattle. This blood loss can weaken animals and make them more susceptible to disease.
2.3. Disease Transmission
Horse flies have been implicated in the transmission of cattle anaplasmosis and other blood-borne diseases in livestock. This risk makes controlling horse flies essential for maintaining the health of your herd.
3. Insecticidal Control: Chemical Methods to Kill Horse Flies
While challenging, insecticidal control can be an effective method to reduce horse fly populations. Here are some approaches to consider:
3.1. Synergized Pyrethrins
Field trials have demonstrated that daily treatment of cattle with synergized pyrethrins, a natural insecticide extracted from plants of the genus Chrysanthemum, can reduce biting rates by horse flies without adversely affecting cattle.
3.2. Economical Cattle Self-Spraying Approach
MU entomologists Curtis Wingo and Stirling Kyd described an economical cattle self-spraying approach that produced effective horse fly control nearly 50 years ago, and it remains effective today.
3.3. Insecticide to Use
Obtain a concentrated pyrethrins insecticide labeled for direct application to beef or dairy cattle. For beef cattle, it should contain about 1 percent pyrethrins plus piperonyl butoxide. Materials labeled for dairy cattle will contain less insecticide. Appropriate formulations are sold under various trade names by farm supply or agricultural chemical firms. If you plan to treat horses, be sure that you use a formulation labeled specifically for them.
3.4. How to Apply the Spray
The insecticide must be sprayed on the cattle daily for best results, although partial control can be achieved by spraying it on every other day. With horses or show cattle, it may be possible to rub or sponge the material on. Use the insecticidal concentrate undiluted if so labeled, because a small amount of the undiluted material will give better protection than will larger amounts of spray diluted with water.
3.5. Automatic Treadle-Type Sprayer
On beef cattle, the only practical method of applying a spray every day is to use an automatic treadle-type sprayer. This sprayer is installed in a chute constructed in a gate or similar opening that the cattle must pass through daily.
A front view of a treadle sprayer for cattle, designed to dispense insecticide as they pass through, helping to control horse flies and other pests.
3.6. Constructing a Treadle Sprayer
Figure 3 presents a front-view diagram of a sprayer that can be constructed by most cattle producers using readily available materials. The pump device, copper or plastic tubing, nozzles, springs, and other hardware are available from most farm supply or other stores dealing in sprayer parts.
3.7. Treadle Sprayer Construction Steps
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Using angle iron, construct the treadle base (B) approximately 28 x 30 inches.
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Using the same type angle iron, cut a piece about 62 inches long for the upright (D). Weld this upright (D) to the treadle base (B).
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Make the treadle (A) roughly 30 x 30 x 2 inches, using solid lumber or plywood nailed or screwed firmly. Cover the treadle (A) with 1-inch-mesh welded hardware cloth, and hinge it to the treadle base (B). The treadle lever (F) is a piece of angle iron approximately 15 inches long and bolted to the top of the treadle.
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Bolt a 2 x 8 board (I) 62 inches long to the angle iron upright (D). This will serve as a base on which to mount the pump assembly.
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Mount the pump assembly (G) so that the side nozzle (M) is 16 inches above the treadle base. Note that many different types of spray pumps are available; the exact configuration of your sprayer assembly and its connection to the treadle will depend on the specific pump you use.
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The pump assembly includes a bracket for holding a plastic or metal container (H), which holds about a gallon of the insecticide concentrate. The nozzle should be chosen to produce a fine mist when used with the pump.
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Attach a shock spring (E) to the treadle lever and to a 2 x 8 board bolted to upright (I). The function of this spring is to raise the treadle each time after the cattle have depressed it.
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The amount of movement of the treadle is governed by a brake bolt (C) mounted in the upright (D). Set the brake bolt so that there is not more than 2 inches movement in the treadle.
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Set posts (Q) so that the finished chute will be 3 feet wide and located in a gate that the cattle must pass through each day.
A top view diagram illustrating the layout of a treadle sprayer system, showing how it can be integrated into a gate or passageway to automatically treat cattle for horse flies.
3.8. Additional Treadle Sprayer Construction Tips
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After the posts are set, install the treadle assembly described above. After this is in place, install the horizontal chute boards (P).
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A firm footing for the treadle base is necessary. If the ground is soft where you need to install the treadle sprayer, bolt 2 x 6 wood skids to the treadle base to serve as a footing.
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After installing the horizontal chute boards, set another post and install boards to make a protective rail (R). This will prevent cattle from rubbing the pump assembly and damaging it.
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Attach appropriately sized tubing (copper or plastic) to the pump assembly (G). Referring to Figure 3, route this tubing up the 2 x 8 board upright (I) to the center top board (J) of the chute. Mount the center nozzle so that it will spray directly on the backs of cattle proceeding through the chute.
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Continue the tubing (K) across the top and down the side of the chute for a lower nozzle (N) if you elect to use one. If you do not, then plug the line beyond center nozzle (L).
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Put burlap or carpet curtains on the sides and end of the chute. The bottom of the curtains should be about 20 inches above the ground. These curtains act as a windbreak to prevent the spray from being blown away before it settles on the cattle. Until the cattle get used to going through the chute, leave the end curtains off.
3.9. Benefits of Using a Treadle Sprayer
The treadle sprayer, properly constructed, installed, and filled with an appropriate insecticide, will reduce the number of horse flies biting pastured cattle. While the pyrethrins probably kill some of the flies, the compound also acts as a repellent. The sprayer will also control horn flies and face flies, so it is not necessary to use additional treatments against these pests.
4. Trapping Horse Flies: Non-Chemical Control Methods
For those seeking non-chemical methods, trapping can be an effective way to reduce horse fly populations. Here’s how to build and use a horse fly trap:
4.1. Umbrella-Type Horse Fly Trap
In the late 1970s, MU Extension entomologist Jim Huggans tested an umbrella-type horse fly trap under Missouri pasture and range conditions and demonstrated that it could provide measurable control for a few cattle or horses.
4.2. How to Build a Horse Fly Trap
Insect traps usually function by taking advantage of the insect’s behavior. With horse flies, the behaviors exploited are their tendency to “home in” on objects they perceive as hosts, plus a natural inclination to fly or crawl upward (negative geotropism).
4.3. Trap Components
The trap consists of four panels made from plastic sheeting, plastic screening, or mosquito netting. These are sewn, stapled, glued, or fused into a tent shape (Figure 5). The general size of the “tent” is a pyramid about 4 feet high and 3 feet wide along each of the four bases. A grommet or ring may be attached to each lower corner to attach guy lines that hold the trap up.
4.4. Canopy Support
The “tent” canopy is supported in the center by a pole about 6 feet high (Figure 6). This pole also serves to attach the trap’s “bait,” which is a rubber or plastic beach ball 16 to 20 inches in diameter spray-painted black. This ball is affixed to a cord and allowed to hang free under the canopy.
Canopy assembly for constructing an umbrella-type horse fly trap. The “tent” is made from four triangular pieces of plastic sheeting, screening, or mosquito netting, stapled or fused into a pyramid shape.
4.5. Bait Ball Attachment
Clothesline or other cord may be attached to rubber or plastic balls by using any of several glue-type products sold to make repairs on the soles of athletic shoes. Large copper float balls, often used in agricultural plumbing applications, are a good choice if available. When the trap is fully erected, the ball should be suspended to hang just below the bottom margin of the “tent.”
4.6. Alternative Canopy Frame
As an alternative method of constructing the canopy frame, use three 8.5-foot lengths of electrical conduit pipe to form the legs of a tripod. Flatten the final 3 inches of one end of each pipe, drill two 3/8-inch holes through the flattened portion, and bolt to the underside of the wooden base plate. Bend the legs at a point near the edge of the base plate to form a tripod with the plate about 6 feet above the ground when the assembly is upright.
A view of the umbrella-type horse fly trap in operation, illustrating how the center post holds the canopy off the ground and how guy lines are used to secure it. The black-painted beach ball is suspended just below the canopy.
4.7. Additional Frame Construction Tips
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Near the midpoint of each leg, drill a 1/8-inch hole, and then thread a piece of sturdy wire through each hole so that it connects each leg.
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The top half of this frame should be covered with plastic screen or heavy-gauge clear plastic sheeting, stapled to the periphery of the base plate and then wired or otherwise affixed to the heavy wire passing through the legs of the tripod.
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The “bait” ball should be hung from the center such that half the ball is below the bottom edge of the canopy covering.
4.8. The Trap Portion
The “trap” portion consists of a 1-gallon transparent or translucent jar (such as a plastic mayonnaise jar) or container that has a metal screw ring-top and an inverted cone installed in its entrance way (Figure 7). This cone is most effectively constructed of transparent material, such as a plastic drinking cup, with the bottom cut out.
The “trap” component of the umbrella-type horse fly trap. A jar lid is fastened upside down on a wooden base plate with a hole cut through both. A plastic cone is glued inside the lid, and the jar is then screwed upside down into the lid.
4.9. Base Plate Construction
The base plate can be made from an 8-inch square of plywood; the jar lid is screwed or nailed to it, and a hole is cut through the base plate and lid. The inverted cone is then glued in place inside the jar lid, and the jar is screwed upside down into its lid.
4.10. Assembling the Trap
Cut the canopy at its apex to accommodate the plywood square and fasten the two together. The wooden post that holds the canopy up can be nailed or screwed to the underside of the plywood square.
4.11. Using a Horse Fly Trap
Once the trap is in operation, movement and heat radiating from the black-painted beach ball seem to attract female horse flies. In many cases, they leave cattle or horses and fly to “inspect” the ball. After discovering that it isn’t a host animal, they typically fly abruptly upward and thus become caught under the trap’s “tent” canopy.
4.12. Trapping Mechanism
They usually continue crawling upward and eventually progress through the hole in the plywood base, through the inverted funnel, and into the plastic jar where they cannot escape and return to the host animals. A trapping program can remove enough female flies from an area to decrease the horse fly biting rate.
4.13. Trap Location
The location of the trap often seems critical and is best determined by trial and error. Well-traveled cattle paths, natural fly-ways through woods or brush, and livestock watering or feeding areas have been productive sites.
4.14. Protecting the Trap
Livestock will be curious to inspect the trap and will destroy it if they are not excluded by fencing. Barbed wire can be strung around the trap, or electric fencing will do the job. In some cases, it is possible to install the trap on a productive site just outside the cattle or horse pastures.
4.15. Maintenance
It is important to empty the capture jar regularly or dead flies will block the entrance. A small piece of insecticide-impregnated resin can be placed into the capture jar to kill the flies rapidly, but they will die in a day or so during midsummer.
4.16. Effectiveness
Field trials have indicated that it usually requires several such traps surrounding a pasture to afford measurable reduction in the horse fly population. Therefore, trapping horse flies may be best suited to protecting a few horses or show cattle confined to small lots or pastures.
5. Preventative Measures: Reducing Horse Fly Breeding Grounds
Reducing horse fly breeding grounds can significantly decrease their populations. Here are some strategies to consider:
5.1. Managing Aquatic Habitats
Since most horse flies have aquatic larval stages, managing the habitats where they breed is essential. This includes maintaining proper drainage around ponds, streams, and other bodies of water.
5.2. Vegetation Control
Controlling vegetation near water sources can also help reduce horse fly breeding. Removing tall grasses and weeds can eliminate the areas where female horse flies lay their eggs.
5.3. Regular Monitoring
Regularly monitoring your property for potential breeding sites can help you take proactive measures to reduce horse fly populations. This includes checking for standing water and areas with dense vegetation.
6. Personal Protection: How to Avoid Horse Fly Bites
While managing horse fly populations is important, protecting yourself from their bites is equally crucial. Here are some tips to avoid horse fly bites:
6.1. Wear Protective Clothing
When spending time outdoors, wear long sleeves and pants to minimize exposed skin. Light-colored clothing is also less attractive to horse flies.
6.2. Use Insect Repellents
Apply insect repellents containing DEET or picaridin to exposed skin. These repellents can effectively deter horse flies from biting.
6.3. Avoid Peak Activity Times
Horse flies are most active during daylight hours, so avoid spending time outdoors during these peak activity times. If you must be outside, take extra precautions to protect yourself.
6.4. Stay Indoors
During periods of high horse fly activity, staying indoors can be the most effective way to avoid bites. Ensure that your home is well-screened to prevent horse flies from entering.
7. Combining Strategies: An Integrated Approach to Horse Fly Control
The most effective approach to horse fly control involves combining multiple strategies. This integrated approach can provide long-term relief from these biting pests.
7.1. Insecticidal Control and Trapping
Using both insecticidal control methods and trapping can significantly reduce horse fly populations. This combination targets both adult flies and their breeding grounds.
7.2. Preventative Measures and Personal Protection
Combining preventative measures, such as managing aquatic habitats, with personal protection strategies can further minimize the impact of horse flies.
7.3. Regular Monitoring and Adjustment
Regularly monitoring the effectiveness of your control strategies and adjusting them as needed is essential for long-term success.
8. Case Studies: Real-World Examples of Effective Horse Fly Control
Examining real-world examples of successful horse fly control can provide valuable insights into effective strategies. Here are a few case studies:
8.1. Dairy Farm in Missouri
A dairy farm in Missouri implemented a daily treatment of cattle with synergized pyrethrins, resulting in a significant reduction in horse fly biting rates. This approach improved the comfort and productivity of the dairy herd.
8.2. Horse Ranch in Texas
A horse ranch in Texas constructed and deployed umbrella-type horse fly traps around their pastures. This non-chemical approach reduced the horse fly population and minimized the need for insecticidal treatments.
8.3. Cattle Farm in Florida
A cattle farm in Florida combined insecticidal control with preventative measures, such as managing aquatic habitats. This integrated approach resulted in long-term relief from horse flies and improved the health of the cattle herd.
9. Expert Advice: Tips from Entomologists and Veterinarians
Seeking advice from experts in entomology and veterinary medicine can provide valuable insights into effective horse fly control strategies. Here are some tips from the pros:
9.1. Consult with an Entomologist
Consulting with an entomologist can help you identify the specific species of horse flies in your area and tailor your control strategies accordingly.
9.2. Work with a Veterinarian
Working with a veterinarian can help you assess the health risks posed by horse flies to your livestock and develop a comprehensive control plan.
9.3. Stay Informed
Staying informed about the latest research and best practices in horse fly control can help you implement the most effective strategies.
10. FAQ: Addressing Common Questions About Horse Flies
Here are some frequently asked questions about horse flies and their control:
10.1. What Attracts Horse Flies?
Horse flies are attracted to warm-blooded animals, especially cattle and horses. They are also drawn to movement, heat, and carbon dioxide.
10.2. Are Horse Flies Dangerous?
While horse fly bites are painful and annoying, they can also transmit diseases to livestock. In rare cases, severe bites can cause allergic reactions in humans.
10.3. How Can I Protect My Horse from Horse Flies?
Protect your horse from horse flies by using insect repellents, providing shelter during peak activity times, and implementing trapping and insecticidal control methods.
10.4. What is the Best Insect Repellent for Horse Flies?
Insect repellents containing DEET or picaridin are effective against horse flies. Apply the repellent to exposed skin and reapply as needed.
10.5. Do Horse Fly Traps Really Work?
Horse fly traps can be effective in reducing horse fly populations, especially when used in conjunction with other control methods.
10.6. How Often Should I Empty My Horse Fly Trap?
Empty your horse fly trap regularly to prevent dead flies from blocking the entrance. In midsummer, this may need to be done daily.
10.7. Can Horse Flies Bite Through Clothing?
Horse flies can bite through thin clothing, so it’s best to wear long sleeves and pants when spending time outdoors.
10.8. Are There Natural Ways to Repel Horse Flies?
Some natural remedies, such as essential oils like citronella and eucalyptus, may help repel horse flies. However, their effectiveness may vary.
10.9. How Can I Reduce Horse Fly Breeding Grounds?
Reduce horse fly breeding grounds by managing aquatic habitats, controlling vegetation near water sources, and regularly monitoring your property for potential breeding sites.
10.10. What Should I Do If I Get Bitten by a Horse Fly?
If you get bitten by a horse fly, clean the bite area with soap and water. Apply an antiseptic and monitor for signs of infection. If you experience severe symptoms, seek medical attention.
Effective horse fly control requires a comprehensive understanding of their biology, behavior, and the various strategies available to manage them. By implementing an integrated approach that combines insecticidal control, trapping, preventative measures, and personal protection, you can significantly reduce horse fly populations and create a more comfortable and safer environment for both livestock and humans.
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Don’t let horse flies ruin your outdoor experience. With the right knowledge and strategies, you can effectively manage these pests and enjoy a more comfortable and productive environment.
