SCOPS launches Blowfly Emergence Forecast
Variable weather patterns mean blowfly is emerging at more unusual times.
The Sustainable Control of Parasites in Sheep (SCOPS) is now hosting a Blowfly Emergence Forecast on its website.
The decision support tool is designed to guide farmers with taking a proactive approach to flystrike prevention.
While blowflies usually emerge in spring, variable weather patterns mean that they are sometimes emerging earlier or later than expected. This variability means farmers can be caught out if they rely solely on fixed calendar-based routines.
The blowfly forecast, much like SCOPS’ Nematodirus forecast, uses high quality weather data from over 140 weather stations around the UK. The data focuses specifically on predicted blowfly emergence, ensuring farmers can begin close inspection and preventative strategies.
The map presents risk as a simple colour-coded system:
• Grey – fly emergence unlikely
• Yellow – fly emergence possible soon
• Orange – fly emergence likely soon
• Red – flies emerging
Once an area turns red, it will remain red for the rest of blowfly season. Once flies are present, they remain capable of causing strike on the farm.
SCOPS has stressed that emergence risk is not the same as cases of flystrike. Farmers, SQPs and veterinary professionals are urged to report confirmed cases of flystrike using the Elanco flystrike reporting system.
Whether strike occurs can depend on a number of local factors, including fly population levels, weather conditions, fleece length and cleanliness, grazing environment and field shelter.
The tool is designed to be an early warning tool, which should prompt farmers to check sheep more closely and consider appropriate preventative strategies.
Kevin Harrison, chair of SCOPS, said: “Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to flystrike. Once strike occurs, the consequences for sheep welfare and productivity can be severe.
“Having an accurate indication of when blowflies are first emerging in spring allows farmers to put preventative measures in place in good time.”
The Blowfly Emergence Forecast tool can be accessed here.
Image © Staronaut/Shutterstock
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