Commercial livestock, as a group, are attacked by a complex of arthropod ectoparasites. The dairy industry is no exception. Two species of filth fly pests that occur on this commodity group are house flies and stable flies. Stable flies are fierce biters and have been shown to reduce milk production 40- 60%. House flies are public health nuisances that can transmit a variety of diseases to humans. Control of these insects pests solely relies on the application of insecticides. Because of the adverse effects of possible milk and meat contamination by pesticide residues, dairy cattle arthropod pests are especially suitable for evaluation of nonchemical control methods. The objective of this proposed study is to determine the efficacy of solar-powered electrocutor/attractant traps to control native populations of house flies and stable flies on dairy farms when compared with similar areas where no traps are used.
Anticipated Results/Potential Commercial Applications of Research:: We anticipate that house fly and stable fly populations can be controlled on dairies using solar-powered electrocution/attractant traps, an important first step in providing workable alternatives to insecticides for filth fly control. Other livestock production systems may be able to utilize this technology (e.g., cattle feedlots, swine facilities, poultry farms). Additionally, fly pests of other domestic animals (e.g. , horse stables, dog kennels, zoos), as well as those that impact agricultural crops and humans, may be able to be controlled using this environmentally safe system.
