06/12/08 Horn fly control

Seems like horn flies on cattle are as predictable as the seasons. They are not only annoying to cattle, but cause weight loss, milk production loss, and eye problems. Control options can be time consuming, costly, and have short durations. I can remember Dad spraying the cowherd with a water mixture insecticide. As a kid I always thought it was a good way to keep corral dust down. Newer techniques include insecticide ear tags, pour-on treatments, dust bags, back rubbers, and mineral supplements that are designed to kill fly larvae living in cattle manure. These minerals can be costly, but provide a convenient way to treat cattle in more remote pastures. Dust bags can provide control, but require cattle to actually rub the hanging bag containing the insecticide. Back rubbers need maintenance to keep them functional and the treatment reservoirs filled. Insecticide ear tags are effective, but the cowherd has to be gathered and each animal restrained to attach the tags. Back pour-on solutions are fairly easy to apply, but usually means moving the cattle through a working alley. While horn fly control is not always easy, large infestations can cause up to eight percent calf weaning weight losses. Maybe it would pay to pick the best control method for your ranch and get after those little rascals. I'm Jeff Keane.