Buffalo flies (Haematobia irritans exigua) are predominantly found in northern Australia, thriving in the warm, humid climates of Queensland, the Northern Territory, and northern Western Australia. Managing buffalo fly populations is crucial to maintaining healthy and productive herds.
Even though the wet season has passed, for many producers, the impact of the heavy, ongoing rain has had a major impact on soil structure leading to issues with productivity.
Buffalo fly, cattle tick and internal parasites comprise the top three costliest conditions for the Australian beef cattle industry. In particular, buffalo fly have become the most costly endemic challenge for the beef industry, with prevention and production losses amounting to an estimated $170.3 million annually.
Buffalo flies pose a significant threat to livestock health, causing irritation, blood loss, and secondary infections that reduce weight gain, milk production, and impacting overall animal welfare. The financial burden extends beyond direct losses, as producers face increasing costs to manage infestations and protect their herds.
Lifecycle
Buffalo flies are small biting insects that lay their eggs in fresh cattle dung. The lifecycle from egg to adult takes about 10ñ14 days, depending on environmental conditions. This rapid reproduction contributes to high fly populations in favorable conditions.
Adapted from ‘Figure 1. Life cycle of the buffalo fly’ by NSW Department of Primary Industries,2007, Prime Facts, Volume 436: Buffalo flies and their control
Symptoms of Infestations
Cattle heavily infested with buffalo flies can exhibit:
– Persistent defensive behaviors like head-shaking, tail-swishing, stomping, and licking.
– Bite wounds, which may become irritated and infected.
– Decreased grazing time and increased stress levels.
Climate and Buffalo Flies
Buffalo flies are predominantly found in northern Australia, thriving in tropical and subtropical regions with warm, humid climates. They are especially common in areas of Queensland, the Northern Territory, and northern Western Australia, where conditions such as consistent cattle presence and suitable temperatures allow their population to flourish. These flies are increasingly spreading to southern areas, particularly along coastal and inland zones, as they adapt to varying environmental conditions.
Map adapted from ‘Figure 1. Distribution of buffalo flies in Australia’ by Meat & Livestock Australia, Flies (https://www.mla.com.au/research-and-development/animal-health-welfare-and biosecurity/parasites/identification/flies)
Why is a comprehensive buffalo fly management program necessary?
In recent years, rising resistance to conventional chemicals and insecticides has driven research into innovative alternatives. In addition to injectables, tags and pour-ons, non-chemical solutions are gaining traction, as consumer demand shifts towards natural and sustainable production methods. Identified below are treatment/management strategies to consider as part of a multifaceted approach to aid buffalo fly control.
Sulphur, Mineral and Garlic Supplementation
Research has shown that sulphur and garlic can assist with the natural resistance to external parasites such as ticks and buffalo fly. Including both sulphur and garlic in a balanced mineral supplement can offer graziers a largely hands-free (minimal labour) tool as part of their parasite management program as well as providing essential minerals for health and productivity.
Cell/Rotational Grazing
High density cell grazing and rotational grazing both have benefits when it comes to pasture utilisation and parasite control. The trampling effect that high density grazing has on mulch and manure gives a twofold advantage; providing a boost to soil biology and pasture growth, as well as assisting to hasten the breakdown of manure to interrupt the breeding cycle of buffalo fly
Back Rubbers, Back Dusters and Fly Traps
Self application methods such as back rubbers and fly traps are a practical and ideal option for producers in areas where mustering and management of stock is difficult. For best results, ensure that back rubbers and fly traps are operational through the entire season and are placed in well-travelled cattle paths, ensuring animals pass under them on their way to water, feed, or mineral supplements. Alternatively, back rubbers can be positioned in shaded areas or resting spots where cattle tend to gather frequently.
Dung Beetles
Dung beetles provide numerous benefits that boost productivity for Australian producers. By sequestering carbon in the soil, they contribute to improved soil health in grazing systems. Their primary role of breaking down and burying cattle manure also disrupts the breeding cycle of buffalo flies and reduces the spread of diseases and pests.
Anthelmintics or Chemical Sprays
(Injectables, Tags and Pour-on drenches)
To effectively control buffalo flies, consider using chemical agents or insecticidal ear tags only during peak buffalo fly season. These treatments can provide rapid relief, improving cattle comfort and reducing stress.
Delaying the use of chemical treatments until fly numbers reach a problematic threshold helps lower the risk of flies developing resistance, ensuring that these treatments remain effective over time.
The MegaMin Sulphur + Garlic Range offer a blend of high sulphur, essential broad-spectrum minerals, and the powerful benefits of garlic liquid (including allicin).
MegaMin Sulphur + Garlic is a year-round supplement that combines quality sources of sulphur and phosphorus with a balanced profile of macro and trace minerals. It is formulated with elevated sulphur levels plus a garlic liquid (Allicin), designed to support livestock in environments where external parasites such as buffalo fly, lice, and ticks are a concern. This formulation also includes higher levels of phosphorus, intended to support energy metabolism, growth, milk production, and fertility. Additionally, the supplement is suitable for livestock grazing lush green feed or forage sorghum, where sulphur may assist with prussic acid detoxification.
