Agriculture Victoria urges sheep producers to prepare for flystrike

By Jessica Dempster

Agriculture Victoria is urging sheep producers to review their flystrike prevention plans as spring conditions increase the risk of blowfly activity.

District Veterinary Officer Lee Manning says blowfly activity typically increases in temperatures above 17 degrees Celsius, while larvae can emerge once soil temperatures exceed 15 degrees, with wet winter conditions followed by warmer-than-average weather posing a risk of earlier-than-usual activity.

Dr Manning says regular flock inspections are important for identifying early signs of flystrike, including restlessness, reduced grazing, wool discolouration, strong odour and sheep separating from the mob. She says early intervention can limit animal welfare problems and production losses.

Producers seeking advice are encouraged to contact Agriculture Victoria’s Veterinary or Animal Health Officers on 136 186.