Combination strategy of traps and a repellent to manage stable flies (Stomoxys calcitrans L.) in large pastures in Nebraska

 
 
Stress from stable fly (Diptera: Muscidae) feeding  results in economic losses estimated at Multi-week field trials in 2019 and 2020 tested an integrated repellent and trap treatment compared to a standard insecticide and control. Treatments were reapplied weekly. Overall, during the 2019 study stable flies per animal on insecticide and repellent treated cattle were similar and significantly reduced compared to those on control cattle (23.8, 25.0, and 36.2 flies per animal). Examination of the results within the weekly treatment cycle showed treatments effectively reduced on animal stable fly numbers through day 4 post treatment. By day 5, on-animal fly numbers on insecticide, repellent, and control animals were similar. In 2020 control cattle averaged 8.37 stable flies per animal over the course of the study. This was a 76.9% reduction compared to 2019. While seasonal on-animal stable fly numbers were 76.9% lower in 2020 compared to 2019, patterns of response were similar both years. Both the repellent and insecticide treatments significantly reduced stable fly numbers over the course of the study and for a duration of 4 days post treatment. Average weekly trap captures were 85.2 in 2019 and 14.1 in 2020. However, we do not know the impact of the trap captures on reducing on-animal fly loads. Results demonstrated the use of the repellent was as effective as the standard pesticide. While traps have potential in controlling stable flies in pastures, but more research needs to be done.