Biological Control Best Practices for Farms Something shifts on horse and livestock properties in mid-late spring. The flies that were an occasional nuisance have become a persistent presence. And if you’re watching your horses stomp their front legs, bunch in corners, or stand in any available water or shade — you’re seeing the signature of […]
A Practical Guide to Biological Fly Control If you’re starting to notice the first flies of the season in your barn or around your animals, you’re right on schedule — and right at the moment when your fly control strategy matters most. House flies don’t appear out of nowhere. The ones you’re seeing now developed from eggs laid in the manure, wet bedding, and decaying […]
Learn how to reduce flies on your farm this spring with practical cultural control steps, manure management advice, and biological fly control guidance from the entomologist-led team at Spalding Labs.
Holiday Cheer for You & Your Animals December is here — the season of twinkling lights, cozy barns, and taking a little extra time to appreciate the animals who make our lives richer every day. While many of us are treating ourselves to hot cocoa or sneaking the last of the holiday cookies, it’s also […]
Yes—Your Animals Can Join Too As the leaves fall and the hay bales stack up, it’s that sweet in-between season at the barn: one part “We survived fly season!” and one part “Let’s cozy up for winter.” Whether you’re still kicking flies to the curb, or you’re starting to unpack winter blankets, now’s a fun […]
There’s Nothing Scarier Than Unfinished Winter Barn Prep Spooky season is here — but the scariest thing on the farm isn’t ghosts or goblins. It’s heading into cold weather without a plan. October is the perfect time to prep barns, stables, and pastures so your animals stay comfortable all winter long. Start fall farm management […]
Hurricane season can be devastating for animal caretakers. To help you prepare and recover, we’ve gathered trusted disaster relief and preparedness resources.
Stable Flies (Stomoxys calcitrans): Still a Threat Although summer is winding down, biting stable flies remain very active through September in much of the U.S.—and into October in warmer regions. Known for their painful bites, these flies feed on livestock, pets, and humans, leading to stress, reduced feeding, and productivity losses. Livestock exhibit defensive behaviors—bunching, […]
We know many of you in the western U.S. are facing uncertainty due to wildfires. We care deeply about your safety and well-being — and we want to make it easier for you to find the help you need quickly. Below is a list of trusted organizations and disaster resources offering emergency assistance, shelter, support […]
July through September marks peak season for one of the most painful pests in the barnyard — biting stable flies. Unlike house flies that land and crawl, stable flies pierce the skin and feed on blood. They target legs, ankles, and flanks, and they don’t stop until they’ve had their meal. For horses, that means stomping, tail swishing, distraction during […]