SHEEP producers in the southern agricultural areas are reminded to check stock for signs of flystrike following recent rain and warm conditions.
Department of Agriculture and Food senior development officer Mandy Curnow said conditions in many southern areas of Western Australia had been conducive for fly strike.
“Significant rainfall in southern parts earlier this month and prevailing warm conditions has led to reports of flystrike, predominantly body strike,” Ms Curnow said.
“Moisture and bacterial growth associated with fleece rot provide an ideal environment for blowflies to lay eggs and cause body strike.
“Sheep at higher risk include those which are highly wrinkled, have long wool or are showing signs of fleece rot. Sheep with high levels of dags are also at risk of developing breech strike.”
Smaller body strikes can be difficult to pick up from just a quick visual inspection of the paddock, therefore individual inspection of sheep is essential where strike risk is high. If any strike is noted in the flock it is important that sheep are yarded and checked thoroughly.
Ms Curnow said producers must ensure correct chemical use when treating sheep. Different chemicals are registered to be used as either a preventative treatment or to treat struck animals.
“It is essential that you are using the correct chemical for preventing and treating struck animals,” she said.
For more information, visit www.agric.wa.gov.au/mulesing
