Blowfly strike is a significant concern for sheep farmers, particularly during warmer months when fly populations surge. In Northamptonshire, sheep farmer Danny Branson offers a practical, experience-driven approach to managing this challenge when caring for his flock of 1,300 North Country Mules. His approach blends preventative treatment with proactive management, as well as a strong emphasis on shepherding skills.
Understanding blowfly strike risk factors
According to Elanco’s Ruminant Technical Consultant, Carolyn Hogan BVetMed MRCVS, the occurrence of blowfly strike depends primarily on two factors:
- The resilience and condition of the sheep (both ewes and lambs).
- The prevalence of blowflies in the environment
Farmers must stay alert during periods of fluctuating risk. Regular assessments of fly activity and sheep condition help determine whether immediate action is necessary or if treatment can be delayed.
Danny Branson regularly consults with our Animal Health Advisor, John Seabrook, and his vet to evaluate conditions and make informed decisions about fly control strategies. These discussions focus on the presence of flies, product choices, and timing, ensuring that interventions are timely and effective.
Preventative flystrike treatment
When managing his flock, Danny’s preferred products for blowfly prevention are CLiK Zin and CLiK Extra, both applied as pour-ons. Lambs are treated in the spring, as they are particularly vulnerable to fly strike, which can rapidly degrade their condition and impede growth.
For ewes, the approach is more restrained. Pour-on treatments are avoided unless necessary. Instead, Danny’s focuses on cleanliness, regular handling, and observation. His ewes are gathered throughout the summer, and any with signs of soiling are cleaned and trimmed. A single annual dip is also part of the protocol to provide broader protection.
Danny’s effective blowfly control also goes beyond animal health treatments as he ensures he has a sound worming regimen and attention to nutrition and overall well-being help build the animals' resilience. Healthy sheep are less likely to suffer from fly strike and more capable of withstanding challenges when they arise.
How to apply CLiK to sheep
Attention to detail is vital when administering treatments. Danny uses a dosing gun set to a quarter of the lamb dose, applying four “squirts” per lamb to ensure even body coverage. This method has proven effective over the years. To avoid wastage and ensure efficacy, the dosage output of the equipment is regularly measured and adjusted as needed. Overdosing leads to unnecessary costs, while underdosing risks inadequate protection.
Looking for signs like flies hovering or damp, dirty fleeces helps farmers make timely decisions. Treatment may be postponed if the flock appears clean and healthy and flies are absent. This measured approach reflects a balance between vigilance and practicality.
Danny believes that successful sheep farming requires dedication, patience, and a deep-seated passion. While the challenges are many, the rewards are there for those willing to put in the effort.
“You get out what you put in,” he reflects, “and if you’re prepared to put a fair bit in, then you can get rewarded and get a fair bit out of it.”
Free expert advice for managing blowfly strike
Whether you're unsure where to start or just need a few questions answered, feel free to get in touch with our Animal Health Advisors who will be happy to chat through your options and make the process a little easier.
Pop into the store, give us a call, or drop us a message to speak with our team directly. Call 01451 830 400 or email [email protected].
CLiK™ EXTRA contains 65mg/ml dicyclanil. CLiKZiN™ Pour On contains 12.5mg/ml dicyclanil. Legal category: POM-VPS. Information regarding the side effects, precautions, warnings and contra-indications can be found in product packaging and leaflets; further information can also be found in the Summary of Product Characteristics or by contacting Elanco Animal Health on +44 (0)1256 353131, or writing to Elanco UK AH Limited, Bartley Way, Bartley Wood Business Park, Hook RG27 9XA. Advice should be sought from the medicine prescriber. Prescription decisions are for the person issuing the prescription only. CLiKZiN, CLiK EXTRA, Elanco and the diagonal bar logo are trademarks of Elanco or its affiliates. Use medicines responsibly (www.noah.co.uk/responsible). ©2025 Elanco or its affiliates. Date of preparation May 2025. PM-UK-25-0301