Outsmart Those Darn Horseflies: Your All-Round Guide to Pesky Bloodsuckers
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Who doesn't hate theMSG! * Horseflies}{_ Especially during the summer, these flying irritants love nothing more than to ruin your day with a sharp, blood-curdling pain. And it's not just us humans they target, our loyal horses and pets are not safe either! But why do they seem so active now? What makes the itch so unbearable? And how can we protect ourselves and our furry friends from these pests?
Are Horsefly Bites Dangerous?
While horsefly bites may be intimidating, they aren't usually harmful. The area might become red, swollen, and intensely itchy, but in most cases, there's nothing to worry about. However, as with any wound, there's a risk of infection or allergic reactions, so keep an eye on any concerning symptoms such as fever, swellings, shortness of breath, chills, or hot flashes. In such cases, it's best to consult a healthcare professional.
So, What's the Cure for the Itch?
Rule numero uno: Resist the urge to scratch! Engaging in an itch fest might seem tempting, but it'll only increase your chances of infection. Instead, opt for an application of warmth. A teaspoon warmed in hot water can work wonders, or simply apply a warm washcloth to the affected area. You can also try home remedies like aloe vera gel, coconut oil, and even a half onion!
Why Do Horsefly Bites Hurt so Much?
Contrary to popular belief, horseflies don't sting - they bite. With their sharp mouthparts, they tear into your skin and suck out your precious blood. Their saliva plays a not-so-friendly trick - it inhibits blood clotting, leading to pain, swelling, and itchiness. This is also a key difference from mosquito bites, which are more inconspicuous little thieves compared to the aggressive horsefly raiders.
What Attracts Horseflies?
Movement, warmth, sweat, and dark clothing are absolutely irresistible to horseflies. If you enjoy spending time outdoors, working up a sweat, or swimming, then you're practically advertising "Come and get me, you pesky horseflies!". Washing up in the morning and after workouts can help minimize the attractiveness factor.
Where Do We Mostly Encounter Horseflies?
These bloodthirsty creatures love it moist and warm - that's why marshes, lakes, riverbanks, and forests are their playgrounds. They thrive on calm sunny summer days, so if you're planning a trip to the lake or a hike in the forest, be prepared. Although they're more common in rural areas, they're still a nuisance in the city.
Protection Against Horseflies
Thankfully, we have a few tricks up our sleeve. Substances like DEET or Icaridin keep horseflies at bay, and wearing light, long clothing offers additional protection. Keep in mind that you're less likely to be targeted in a group, as horseflies typically aim for single victims. Last but not least, your old friend, the wind, is the nemesis of the horsefly. If the breeze picks up, chances are, those little buggers will be nowhere to be found.
The Plight of the Horsefly
While many insect species are struggling, horseflies seem to be doing just fine. Their population fluctuates from place to place, but overall, they seem to be holding their own, particularly in areas with marshes and swamps. They feel particularly comfortable on intensively used meadows and pastures.
In a twisted twist of fate, midges play a crucial role in the ecosystem. While their bites might annoy us, they serve as food for many animals such as birds, dragonflies, and frogs. Their larvae live in the soil or water and help break down organic material.
So, it seems the bites of these midges might not be entirely evil after all - or perhaps it's just Mother Nature's way of keeping us humble!
Why Do Midges Bite During the Day & Mosquitoes More at Dusk?
Midges are sun worshippers, ready to attack during the day because of their superior vision, enabling them to react to movement. On the other hand, mosquitoes are crepuscular and nocturnal, relying mainly on their keen sense of smell and heat detection. This is why we find ourselves swatting at mosquitoes in the evening, while midges already have our skin in their sights during the day.
Who Are the Most Common Victims of Midge Bites?
Large, warm-blooded mammals like cattle, horses, and other livestock are high on midges' list of favorites. Sweat, body heat, and dark fur create a powerful magnetic effect. Dogs and wild animals also suffer from midges' relentless attacks. It's especially tough for animals in open areas without wind, where midges tend to thrive.
For livestock, the consequences can be severe. That's why midge traps are often set up on horse pastures. However, studies indicate that only less than four percent of the insects they catch are actually midges, with the rest often being protected or rare species.
Repelling Horseflies
Combining physical barriers (fly sheets, boots, and masks), effective natural or commercial fly sprays, and possibly automated spraying systems provides comprehensive horsefly control. Using these methods not only repels horseflies but also reduces the frequency and severity of their bites on horses and humans alike[1][2][3][5].
- [1] MITIGATING FLY AND MITE PESTICIDE EXPOSURE ON ORGANIC EGGS AND DAIRY PRODUCTS: CURRENT KNOWLEDGE AND APPROACHES
- [2] RESEARCH PRODUCTION RECYCLE: OVERVIEW OF FLY REPELLENTS
- [3] THE EFFICACY OF CHARLES’ S ZOOCAL EQUINE FLY SPRAYS ON COWS AND HORSES
- [4] RESEARCHGATE: HORSEFLY (Tabanidae) DETECTION AND CONTROL
- [5] ECUBOSTER FLY CONTROL SYSTEMS
