Keep up your guard against flies

The extended summer is proving to be a problem for livestock farmers as there are still significant populations of biting and nuisance flies causing irritation to grazing stock.

According to Robert Ankcorn, veterinary adviser at Intervet, this summer has seen relatively few serious fly problems so far, and this may have resulted in a false sense of security and a reduction in the use of fly prevention treatments. "The fly season is definitely not over yet, and the continued high temperatures experienced over most parts of the UK have seen populations rise to concerning levels," warns Mr Ankcorn.

"With no immediate end predicted to the current spell of above average temperatures, farmers seeing large numbers of flies on and around the noses and flanks of their stock should consider a late-season application of a suitable fly treatment. Deltamethrin based treatments, such as the Intervet's Butox SWISH, will provide protection for the remainder of the fly season," Mr Ankcorn advises.