Learn how to control flies around your barn with effective, eco-friendly solutions like parasitic wasps, fly traps, and sprays. Keep your horses comfortable all summer long with a customized fly-prevention plan.
Is there anything more annoying on a hot summer day than a fly? These buzzing, biting pests are the bane of every horse owner’s existence and often seem inescapable. What can be done to minimize discomfort and reduce the overall pest population during fly season?
What Flies Are Common in the Southeast?
The flies found in barns can be divided into two main categories: filth flies and aquatic (or semi-aquatic) flies. The difference lies in where their larvae develop. As the names suggest, the larvae of filth flies develop in decaying matter, while the larvae of aquatic flies develop around or in water.
In the Southeastern U.S., the filth flies that bother horses are typically stable flies, house flies, horn flies, bot flies, gnats, and face flies. These flies develop in manure and are the “little” ones that constantly make horses twitch and swish their tails.
Horse flies and deer flies are the “big ones” with strong, painful bites. They are the loud buzzers that cause stronger reactions in horses, such as bucking, kicking, and biting. Horse and deer flies are aquatic or semi-aquatic, and other common flies in this category include mosquitoes and black flies.
What Preventatives and Repellents Are Available?
Fly sprays are the most common solution for flies and a good starting point for fly control. They are safe, effective, and easy to use. However, horse owners should be cautious when trying out new sprays, as some horses may have allergic reactions to certain brands. Always test a small area first to ensure your horse is not sensitive to the product.
Feed-through repellents are larvicides that kill flies in the larval stage. Options include drug-based and natural feed-throughs. Diflubenzuron is a commonly used pesticide in these products, while garlic is a popular natural repellent. Feed-through repellents typically come in powder or pellet form and can be tailored to the horse’s needs.
Fly traps are an easy and widely available option for fly control. Popular types include adhesive traps, “bug zappers,” and water traps. When using traps, place them out of reach of livestock. Odor traps should be positioned to draw flies away from animals, and many traps are most effective in sunny locations.
Barn and Pasture Conditions
Maintaining a clean barn and pasture can significantly reduce the fly population. Regularly remove manure and replace stagnant water. Since many flies that bother horses are filth flies, cleaning your barn is a solid first step in fly prevention. Fans can also help by improving airflow and blowing pests away.
Fly Gear
Fly masks, sheets, and boots provide instant relief from flies. Made of breathable mesh, these products protect horses while keeping them comfortable. They come in a variety of styles, patterns, and colors, making them easy to find and customize for your horse.
Insecticides
Insecticides are a strong option for fighting flies but should be used with caution. Available as aerosols, sprays, and baits, these products must be used according to the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure safety for both humans and animals. Always confirm that the insecticide is safe for horses before application.
Parasitic Wasps
For a natural approach, consider parasitic wasps. These tiny, nocturnal insects are harmless to humans and animals but highly effective in controlling fly populations. They kill fly pupae by laying eggs inside them. Regular releases of parasitic wasps are necessary to maintain control. Brands like Fly Eliminators offer this environmentally friendly option as an alternative to chemical sprays and insecticides.
A Customized Solution
With so many options available, horse owners can create a customized fly-prevention plan that works best for their needs. By using these tools, barns can be quieter, horses can be more comfortable, and summer days can be a little less stressful for everyone.
To read more horse health articles click here. To view American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) horse owner horse health articles click here. To visit Equine Disease Communication Center for horse health alerts click here.
