July through September marks peak season for one of the most annoying and painful pests in the barnyard — biting stable flies. Unlike regular house flies, these little vampires pack a painful bite and feed on blood, making life miserable for your horse (and you). But with the right tools and strategies, you can effectively stop biting stable flies before the swarm takes over.
Why Biting Stable Flies Are a Serious Problem
Biting stable flies are not just annoying — they’re persistent biters that can cause real harm to your horse’s comfort and health. They’re most active during warm, humid months, with population numbers spiking in late summer. Horses plagued by these pests may show signs of stress, stomping, tail swishing, decreased feed intake, and even weight loss.
These flies feed during the day, often targeting your horse’s legs and flanks while they’re turned out or being ridden. Even short outdoor rides can quickly turn into a frustrating, fly-swatting battle.
A Two-Part Approach: Repel + Reduce
The key to controlling biting stable flies is a two-pronged strategy:
1. Repel Biting Stable Flies with Bye Bye Insects
Our powerful Bye Bye Insects botanical fly spray uses essential oils like geraniol, peppermint, rosemary, citronella, and lemongrass to repel biting flies without harsh chemicals.
Unlike synthetic sprays, it’s safe for both you and your horse — with a pleasant smell and no sticky residue. Spray it on before turnout or a trail ride and give your horse long-lasting protection from biting flies, mosquitoes, ticks, and more.
2. Reduce Their Numbers with Effective Traps
Biting Stable flies breed in moist, organic material — think manure piles, soiled bedding, and damp hay. Even with good barn hygiene, it’s nearly impossible to eliminate all potential breeding grounds. That’s why we recommend using targeted traps like the Starbar® Bite Free™ Stable Fly Trap. These traps catch adult stable flies before they can breed, helping to cut the cycle and bring the population down fast.
To understand more about biting stable fly behavior and control, visit our detailed resource: info.spalding-labs.com/biting-stable-flies
Extra Tips for Summer Fly Control:
- Keep manure picked up daily — especially around water sources and feed areas.
- Use fans in barns or run-in sheds — stable flies aren’t strong fliers.
- Change bedding regularly and avoid letting wet spots linger.
- Apply Bye Bye Insects regularly, especially during hot, humid days or before a ride.
Don’t Wait Until It’s a Swarm
Stable flies multiply fast. Waiting until you’re overrun means more stress for your horse and more frustration for you. Stay ahead of biting stable flies with Bye Bye Insects and effective biting stable fly traps — and enjoy a more peaceful, pest-free summer at the barn.