Fly control

For youngstock, fly control is mainly a matter of hygiene, prevention, and a gentle approach. A combination of cleanliness, natural deterrents, and good ventilation is often most effective.

Even halfway through summer, there's still a lot you can do!

Curious about practical tips to reduce nuisance without immediately turning to chemicals? Read more below.

Practical tips for your calf pens

Keep the pen clean and dry

• Flies are drawn to damp areas. Keep floors dry.
• Bedding stays fresher if you regularly add clean straw. Clean out manure more frequently if possible.
• Clean feeding trays and teat buckets regularly. Also sweep the pen exit often, flies love manure and milk residue.

Ensure good ventilation

• Flies thrive in warm, humid air.
• Provide sufficient airflow in and around group pens and calf hutches, but avoid drafts.

Use fly control products safe for young calves

• Every farm is different. Your vet or advisor can help you choose the safest and most suitable method for your calves.

Prefer a biological approach

• Use fly traps like sticky tape or UV lamps, out of calves’ reach.
• Consider odor-blocking products for bedding and manure, or use natural barn powders.
• Avoid chemical agents near calves unless absolutely necessary.

Support the immune system

• Good nutrition and a low-stress environment help boost immunity.
• Flies are more problematic when calves are already weak.

Pay attention to feeding and drinking equipment

• Rinse water bowls daily. Standing milk or water breeds flies.
• Refresh milk and feed in time. Leftovers attract flies.
• Use smooth, easy-to-clean bowls without seams.
• Use closed drinkers like our Milkfeeder 1 and 5 with lids, this is a proven measure against flies.
• Calves must always have access to clean water, without flies in it!

Why lids help:

• Flies, birds, cats, and straw cannot reach milk residues.
• You prevent bacterial contamination by keeping pests away.
• Calves are less disturbed while drinking compared to open bowls.
• The type of teat can also affect fly problems.

Want to know our tips on teats? Check our website

Control of flies brings peace to the barn and a healthier calf!

Happy Calf, Happy Farmer