Severe Strike

This year has seen real pressure on products preventing blow fly – it is important to be vigilant especially if it remains warm throughout September.

Remember:

  • Application of a preventative product is essential to reduce risk.
    Take into account withdrawal periods and anticipated slaughter dates as lambs reach weight.
  • Dagging and crutching are also important to reduce risk.
  • Control worm burdens with faecal egg counting and parasite control to prevent dirty backends.
  • Treat lame sheep promptly as flies are attracted to the wounds caused by footrot.

Welfare/Economics

  • Blowfly strike has a serious impact on the welfare of sheep within the UK, as well as having a major impact on productivity. Figures from 2015 suggests blowfly strike costs the sheep industry £2.2 million per year.
  • Losses are incurred from:
  • Welfare
  • Loss in productivity (weight loss and decreased milk yield)
  • Fleece damage
  • Deaths
  • Treatment costs; including product, labour and time

Early Signs of Strike

  • Irritation
  • Nibbling at tail head
  • Increased swishing of tails
  • Rubbing
  • Further signs of discomfort in lame animals

Signs of Severe Strike

  • Discoloured/damp fleece
  • Fleece loss
  • Separation from flock
  • Sick animals
  • Death (due septicaemia from secondary bacterial infection and release of toxins)

https://alerts.nadis.org.uk/

 

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