As livestock producers look ahead to warmer temperatures, fly pressure is already part of the conversation across much of the Midwest. While flies are often viewed as a seasonal annoyance, industry experts say their impact can reach far beyond irritation, affecting animal health, productivity, and overall profitability.
Kirk Dailey, Regional Sales Manager with Central Life Sciences, says flies play a much larger role in livestock operations than many producers may realize. He notes that certain fly species act as disease carriers, spreading pathogens that can impact cattle, swine, and dairy herds.
Dailey says understanding how flies influence herd health becomes especially important as populations begin to build heading into warmer weather. Increased fly pressure can add stress to animals and create challenges that affect performance across the herd.
Research has shown that fly pressure can contribute to health concerns and the spread of diseases that remain a concern for producers across the Upper Midwest. Those issues can ultimately reduce productivity and create long-term impacts on herd performance.
Beyond herd health, the economic impact tied to flies can be significant. Industry estimates suggest horn flies alone account for billions of dollars in lost revenue each year, driven by reduced gains, breeding challenges, and decreased overall performance when animals are under heavy pressure.
As spring approaches, early attention to fly management may help producers stay ahead of seasonal challenges. Addressing breeding areas and maintaining strong husbandry practices can help limit pressure later in the summer and protect overall herd productivity.
