Q&A: An IPM Approach to Horn Fly Control
Q. I had horn fly pressure last summer. Should I assume I’ll have the same problem next summer?
A. It’s a good bet that if you had the problem last season, you’ll have at least some insect pressure next spring. Horn fly pupae over winter under manure and emerge when temperatures begin hitting the upper 60’s and lower 70’s during the day.
Q. If I see horn fly populations growing fast, is it too late to get economical control?
A. No. While it’s best to begin implementing your horn fly control program before you see adult emergence, it’s not too late to get economical control. By using an adulticide spray, like Prolate/Lintox-HD™, you can effectively knock down adult flies while you start a feed-through program.
Q. I’m concerned about exposing my family and workers to pesticide products. Are there equally effective alternative strategies for horn fly control?
A. Pesticides are, by nature, “economic poisons” and should always be used according to label directions. Because horn flies lay their eggs only in fresh manure, delivering the pesticide directly in the manure is highly efficient and reduces potential exposure to farm and ranch personnel. Products that are highly specific for insect control, like insect growth regulators (IGRs), offer a less toxic approach to horn fly control.
Q. The surrounding ranches do not use any type of horn fly control. What kind of results should I expect if I’m the only one on an IGR program?
A. Reducing the impact of horn flies on your cattle alone generally results in positive ROI. While you may see some migration of insects from surrounding areas, the majority of the insect pressure you see is from “local” horn fly populations. Consider talking with your neighbors about your experience with horn fly control strategies and their results.
Q. I have more fly problems than just horn flies. What can I do to create a more general fly control program?
A. Knowing which target insect is causing you the most economic loss is critical in prioritizing your control strategies. Regular sanitation procedures to minimize moisture and organic matter (manure, straw) should help reduce fly pressure in general. Visit www.starbarproducts.com for suggestions and product offerings to implement an effective Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program.