How to Prevent a Fly Infestation in Your Barn

Horse keepers will testify to the fact that flies are the number one problem that they have to deal with most of the time. The fact remains that it is impossible to get rid of every fly that infests your barns. However, it is actually possible to equip yourself with knowledge on the most effective ways to avoid the infestation of flies like the Horse fly. 

In this article, we will consider some management tips to help you put up a more effective battle against flies. If you are looking to you keep your barn from being infested by flies, here’s what you consider to be your first defense line in the war against these insects –

Control Moisture

Areas that are wet usually attract insects because they drink and feed from the wet organic matter and also carry out breeding activities. Make sure that your stalls stay dry. Areas that do not have much pasture should be rid of standing water. If you have any receptacles like feeders, eliminate standing water as well. Construct adequate drainage and keep all plumbing leaks repaired.

 

Waste Management

Keep in mind that flies usually are drawn to filthy smell which is usually traced to trash bins, rotting fruit, manure, compost piles, etc. This is no different for a common stable flies. Always take the time to dispose of waste and keep your trash bins clean. You should make sure that your bins have adequate closure so that flies do not infest the area. Horse fly control products that are made of chemicals can help to wipe out their population. 

Manure Management

Manure should be managed and removed adequately. There are insects that actually love to feed on manure. One such example is the housefly which is mostly known to attack breeding grounds for horses. Keep your stalls, pens, as well as other areas adequately clean every day. Ideally the waste and manure should be located away from the barn, as this will be a huge breeding ground for flies. 

Feeds and Grains

If at all possible try to keep horse feed in a sealed container, not only to prevent flies from being attracted to the area but also other insects such as beetles and moths.  Ensure that foodstuffs remain under wraps. This is to keep flies from attacking them. Get rid of the garbage and always take care to cover grains as well as other feeds in a secure manner.

Fly Repellents Can Help

An effective horse fly repellent usually comes with active ingredients that are not so pleasing for horseflies. Just making use of a fly repellent solution can help to win the battle. You can get your own horse fly repellent and get a spray bottle to make your own horse fly spray. Locate all these infected areas and make use of the spray. You will want to pay special attention to areas where flies have a tendency to rest, such as sides of barns, homes and fences.  A good fly repellent will offer you a residual effect, meaning that is should hang around for a bit and continue to kill flies.  Do not expect the fly to drop dead the moment they land on the surface, insecticide sprays will effect the flies nervous system so it will take some time.  But in all fly populations should be reduced with the application of a good residual fly control / repellent spray.

 

Using Fly Zappers

Installing a fly zapper in a barn can help reduce fly populations, they will work best at night when the zapper light is the only item on to attract them.  No glue boards are required as this produces an electrical shock that kills the flies.  Fly Zappers work well at night when they are the only source of light in the area and it attracts the flies to their death by electrocution.  Can be a little pricey for some, but do have a place in fly control and elimination strategies in the barn.

 

These are some of the fly control horse measures to prevent flies Infestation.  Remember that fly prevention and reduction in barns and stalls is an ongoing process and takes more than one step.  Keep moisture, manure and food under control and apply a residual fly control product such as Happy Horse Stable and Livestock Spray to help eliminate the adult flies.  Reduce breeding grounds, such as manure and excessive moisture and you will find your happy place when it comes to annoying flies.