Extension Spotlight

Parasites can have a significant impact on cattle. During summer, flies can directly affect the growth of younger cattle as well as cows nursing calves. Thus, revenues are affected by flies as well due to decreased gains in young cattle and decreased recovery of cows. Controlling flies is relatively easy and has a positive return on the expense.

The impact of flies on beef cattle has been studied multiple times over the past 50 years. As fly numbers increase on individual animals, weight gains become reduced compared to animals treated with fly controls. These decreased weight gains equate fin...