STABLE FLIES


 This fly is similar to the house
fly but has piercing mouthparts which
protrude bayonet-like from the head.
Stable flies develop in decaying plant
matter such as silage, rotting straw
bedding, and aquatic vegetation. The
life cycle takes about 14-21 days.
Continuous development occurs in the
Virgin Islands.

FLY CONTROL

 Sanitation is the key step in
control of these flies. Disposal of
animal wastes and organic debris is
essential. Chemical control works
better when used in conjunction with
good sanitation practices.

 If you cannot clean up the
areas where flies develop, spray them
with a larvicide. However, frequent
and prolonged use of insecticides,
particularly larvicides, eventually
results in fly resistance and loss of
effective control. Apply residual
sprays to fly resting areas, such
as fences, feed bunks, buildings, and
vegetation. Repeat application may
also be effective in controlling
house flies. Local milk regulations
determine what control measures may
be used in dairies.

HORN FLY

 This small, blood-sucking
parasite remains on the animal most
of the time. Migration up to several
miles occurs. The female lays eggs
in fresh individual cow droppings.
The larvae develop here, and the
adult fly then migrates to an animal
host. The life cycle is completed
in 7-14 days.


 Control may be achieved by
the use of dust bags, sprays, oilers,
and mineral or feed additives. Self-
applicators are most effective when
cattle are forced to use them daily.
Cattle sprayed by ground rigs or ULV
sprays require periodic treatment.
ULV sprays are satisfactory when
cattle are grouped in open areas.

BITING AND SUCKING LICE

 Lice spend their entire life
cycle on the animal. They hatch
from eggs deposited on the hair.
They feed by sucking blood or biting.
The total life cycle takes from 3-4
weeks. Lice are transmitted chiefly
by contact with infested animals.
Dust bags and oilers may aid in
louse control.


CHEWING LOUSE


BITING LOUSE