Fly Control for Alpacas
Why Flies Are a Problem for Alpacas
Flies are often a real nuisance for alpacas and their owners during warm, humid weather. Like most grazing animals, alpacas attract flies, and different species of fly bring their own particular challenges. Flies are often drawn to alpaca eyes in search of moisture, while horseflies tend to bite areas where fleece coverage is sparse. Midges can also cause irritation, particularly around the face and legs.
While flies are part of farm life, large numbers can cause significant stress for animals and increase the risk of problems such as eye infections, sores and the serious, potentially life-threatening condition known as flystrike. Young cria can be particularly vulnerable as they are less able to avoid persistent flies. It can be miserable to watch our much-loved animals struggling with constant irritation.
Over the twenty-odd years of managing our own herd and working with many other alpaca owners, I’ve seen how quickly fly problems can build up and how stressful they can be for everyone. Every summer I’m asked for advice about managing flies and midges so after trying and testing a range of approaches over the years, I’ve put together this guide to share some of the things that have worked well for us and for other alpaca owners.
The good news is that if we start with a few simple management practices early in the season, it is usually possible to keep fly numbers under control. In my experience, effective fly control rarely relies on just one solution. It usually comes down to combining several small management steps which, when used together, can make a big difference.
"In my experience, effective fly control rarely comes down to one magic product. It's usually several simple management steps working together."
Top Tip: Start your fly control programme early in spring. It's much easier to prevent fly numbers building up than it is to regain control once populations explode.
Learning how to reduce flies around alpacas forms part of a good herd health management plan to maintain health and wellbeing.
In this article:
• Why flies become a problem
• Practical ways to reduce flies
• What flystrike is and early warning signs
• What to do if flystrike occurs
Before We Start
Important: This article is based on practical alpaca management experience and is provided for general educational purposes. If you suspect flystrike or any other serious health issue in your alpaca (or any other animal species), contact your veterinarian immediately.
It is important to be aware that there are currently no medications licensed specifically for use in alpacas and other camelids in the UK. Treatments are often used under veterinary guidance based on experience with similar species and prescribed under the veterinary cascade.
Some links in this article are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, Alpaca Power may earn from qualifying purchases. This comes at no extra cost to you.
We only recommend products that we have found useful in our own alpaca management. Any products mentioned are simply examples of tools and approaches that we have found useful on our own alpaca farm over the years.
Why Fly Numbers Increase in Summer
Fly populations naturally increase during warm weather because the conditions allow them to breed quickly and survive longer. Many common fly species can complete their life cycle in just a few days when temperatures rise, so numbers build very quickly once the season gets going.
Fresh manure is one of the main breeding sites for flies. Eggs laid in dung can hatch rapidly, producing large numbers of new flies in a short period of time. This is why fly numbers can suddenly seem to explode during warm spells.
Wet conditions also play a part. Damp ground, muddy gateways and wet fleece all create ideal environments for flies and midges. After periods of rain these conditions can allow insect populations to increase rapidly.
Local surroundings can make a difference too. Holdings with large livestock herds nearby often experience higher fly pressure simply because large herds produce more breeding sites. Sheltered paddocks with little wind can also allow flies to gather more easily, whereas open fields with good airflow are often less attractive to them.
Understanding why flies thrive in certain conditions helps when planning practical ways to reduce their impact.
Daily Pasture Management
Poo picking
One of the most effective steps in controlling flies is taking the time to regularly poo pick, particularly in areas where alpacas spend a lot of time resting or congregating. Removing poo daily helps prevent flies breeding in large numbers and of course also helps to reduce parasite burdens on pasture and minimise intestinal worm burdens in our animals.
Once middens or toilet areas have been cleared, we find that lightly sprinkling Diatomaceous Earth (DE) powder over the cleaned areas helps discourage flies from settling and may reduce the likelihood of eggs being laid and developing.
Reducing damp areas
Flies and midges thrive in damp conditions, so it helps to minimise wet areas wherever possible.
Avoid allowing alpacas access to muddy or persistently wet ground, and always empty paddling pools after use. Damp gateways, standing water and poorly drained areas can quickly become attractive breeding sites for all types of insects including flies and midges.
Diatomaceous Earth (DE) Powder
We have found Diatomaceous Earth (DE) powder to be an essential part of our fly management programme. Applied regularly to middens and muck heaps, it helps discourage flies from settling and breeding, reducing fly numbers around the herd as part of a wider fly control strategy.
View current price on Amazon → Multi-Mite 10kg Bucket Feed Grade Diatomaceous Earth DE Powder
Fly Traps
The use of good quality fly traps can be extremely effective when used correctly. In my experience it is important to use reliable, well-known brands, as many alternatives simply do not work nearly as well.
Source your traps early in the year and get them set up in Spring or as soon as you see the first flies hanging around. Reducing numbers early will mean you won't be fighting a losing battle later on.
Traps should be positioned between where the alpacas spend most of their time and their manure areas. Ideally fly traps should be hung at some height, such as in trees or on shelter overhangs, so they attract flies away from the herd. It usually takes a few days for traps to begin working properly. Keep them topped up with water in hot weather to extend their life. Once the first trap becomes about half full, I like to add a second fly trap to ensure the flies keep on using them throughout the season which helps to improve overall control.
Red Top Fly Traps
We have used Red Top Fly Traps for many years around our alpaca fields. They are particularly effective at reducing nuisance flies around feeding areas and field shelters. They're easy to hang and last for several weeks, just remember to keep them topped up with water.
View current price on Amazon → Red Top Fly Traps
Fly Control for Vulnerable Alpacas Including Crias
Keeping on top of fly control in nursing mothers and their crias, especially those in their first few days of life, is really important. Crias can easily develop eye infections as a result of flies covering their faces. Constant head shaking can be exhausting for young cria and, in severe cases, may contribute to dehydration and poor weight gain if they are reluctant to feed. Flies can also cause fleece loss around the face.
A simple solution that has worked really well for us is applying citronella gel to the cria’s topknot using a couple of fingers. You can also apply it using one finger on each cheek. We find approaching from the shoulder whilst their mums are feeding is really well tolerated and they soon get used to having it applied. We do this every morning and it lasts all day.
This is also effective in any compromised animals such as elderly, sick, or the less active who are less able to keep flies away. These animals require additional care and may benefit from being in a well ventilated shady paddock or a barn with electric fan support, especially in hot weather.
NAF Off Citronella Gel
The product we use is NAF Off Citronella Gel,which we have found to be simple and effective, and it smells great too!
View current price on Amazon → NAF Off Citronella Gel
Shearing and Fleece Management
It is not always possible, but shearing as early in the season as your regional weather conditions safely allow, can also help reduce fly irritation. A shorter fleece provides fewer places for flies to settle and makes it easier to spot any skin problems early.
Unlike sheep, alpacas do not routinely require dagging or crutching, although occasional trimming may be helpful in some heavily fleeced individuals. This should be carried out well before fly season begins to minimise the risk of flystrike and skin issues.
Using Topical Fly Prevention Around the Herd
Aerosol sprays and alpacas tend not to mix.
We find that alpacas mostly dislike aerosol sprays, which can be noisy and frightening to them. Pump sprays are usually much better tolerated and depending on the product can be applied directly to the alpaca or surfaces in their surroundings.
When applying spray formulations to alpacas, securing alpacas in a catch pen makes applying sprays much easier, more targeted and safer too.
Protecting Vulnerable Areas
Midges often target areas where there is less fleece coverage, particularly the axilla (armpit), inguinal (groin) areas and the legs. Paying attention to these areas when applying repellents, especially when applied early in the morning and before dusk, can help reduce irritation.
Spraying the product directly onto a cloth or wipe which is then be applied to the alpaca, especially around the head to avoid accidentally spraying the eyes, and where fleece is sparse, is also effective.
We prefer to use natural formulations for routine fly prevention. Whilst effective, they generally need to be applied twice daily for best results.
Natural Formulation Sprays in the Environment
Misting surfaces such as fence posts, shelter entrances and tree trunks can also help disperse flies and midges from areas where alpacas like to congregate.
NAF Off Extra Effect Fly Spray
The product we use is NAF Off Extra Effect Fly Spray, which we have found to be effective and easy to use around alpacas. We particularly value it around females giving birth and new mothers with cria at foot, helping to reduce fly irritation during an already demanding time.
View current price on Amazon → NAF Off Extra Effect Fly Spray
A Note About Pour-on Fly Products
Fly control products marketed for cattle and sheep are not licensed for use in alpacas or other camelids.
Owners should be aware that whole-body pour-on (spot-on) products are not designed specifically for camelid skin and fleece. Unlike cattle and sheep, alpacas produce very little skin oil, which can influence how these products spread across the body.
In addition, camelid owners and veterinarians have reported occasional adverse reactions following the use of some pour-on products, including signs of distress and neurological abnormalities. Although these reactions appear to be uncommon, they can be severe.
Because no fly control products are currently licensed specifically for alpacas in the UK, treatments are prescribed under the veterinary cascade. If your alpaca develops an unexpected reaction following treatment, contact your veterinary surgeon immediately and ensure the suspected adverse reaction is reported.
For these reasons, we recommend discussing fly control options with a veterinarian experienced in camelids and avoiding the assumption that products licensed for other livestock species can be used safely or effectively in alpacas.
In our own herd, we have not found whole-body pour-on products to be particularly effective for routine fly control. Instead, we focus on good pasture management, environmental fly control and topical products applied directly where protection is needed. This integrated approach has worked well for us over many years.
Managing Field Shelters
Circulating air is really helpful in reducing flies and midges in buildings. Good airflow can make a noticeable difference. In some situations, fans can help keep shelters more comfortable and less attractive to flies and midges.
Hanging fly traps outside the entrances can also help draw flies away from animals using the shelter.
Fitting fly papers inside shelters out of reach of alpacas can help reduce flies inside field shelters and barns.
Many alpacas will naturally retreat to shelters around dawn and dusk, when midges tend to be most active.
Where flies or midges are particularly bad it may be necessary to get your alpacas in for a few hours during early dawn and dusk.
Feeding Garlic as a Deterrrent
Many owners, ourselves included, feed garlic granules as part of their summer management routine and feel it helps discourage flies when used alongside other control measures. We have used garlic granules for many years and find they fit easily into a wider fly management programme.
Garlic is also a popular nutritional supplement and can be fed throughout the year as part of a balanced feeding regime.
For best results, we prefer to introduce garlic before fly numbers begin to build in spring and continue feeding throughout the fly season. Introduce it slowly to get them used to it and feed a little each day.
NAF Garlic Granules
The product we use is NAF Garlic Granules. We prefer granules to powder as they are easier to feed and are readily accepted by most alpacas. Because only a small amount is needed each day, we find a single bag usually lasts us all summer.
View current price on Amazon → NAF Garlic Granules
Fly Masks for Individual Animals
Some alpacas seem to attract flies much more than others. In our herd it is often the animals with lighter-coloured faces and large dark eyes that seem to get the most attention from flies, although sometimes it is simply one unfortunate individual that the flies decide to target.
In these cases, alpaca-specific fly masks or suitably fitted pony fly masks can be very helpful in reducing irritation around the eyes and face.
It is important, however, that masks are checked daily. During warm weather, any mask, dressing or cover can potentially cause rubbing, trap moisture or hide developing problems underneath. If fly masks are used, they should be removed daily so the eyes and surrounding skin can be checked carefully before the mask is refitted.
Suitable Fly Masks
We do not routinely use fly masks on our own herd, but many alpaca owners find miniature pony or Shetland-sized fly masks suitable for individual alpacas that are particularly bothered by flies around the eyes.
View miniature pony fly masks on Amazon → Fly masks
Protecting Minor Wounds and Damaged Skin
Even small cuts, grazes or areas of damaged skin can attract flies, particularly during warm weather. Prompt treatment helps reduce irritation and lowers the risk of flystrike developing.
We recommend:
- Gently cleaning the affected area once or twice daily with a dilute chlorhexidine solution (such as Hibiwash®) following the manufacturer's instructions.
- Applying a protective barrier cream, such as Battles Yellow Fly Cream, to help protect the area from flies while it heals.
- Using a fly repellent spray around (but not directly into) the affected area each day. We have found products such as NAF Off Extra Effect Fly Spray or Nettex Strike Plus useful as part of this routine.
Monitor wounds closely. If swelling, discharge, increasing pain, maggots or delayed healing are seen, veterinary advice should be sought promptly.
Hibiwash 4% Solution
Chlorhexidine (Hibiswash®) is an essential part of our first aid kit. When diluted according to the manufacturer's instructions, it is an effective antibacterial and antifungal skin cleanser that we use to clean contaminated wounds, grazes and damaged skin before applying a protective barrier cream.
View current price on Amazon → Hibiwash
Battles Summer Fly Repellent Cream
Battles Summer Fly Cream comes in a bright yellow cream that forms a protective barrier over minor wounds and damaged skin. We have used it for many years and it has become our preferred fly barrier cream. As well as helping to repel flies, we find it also has a soothing effect on irritated skin.
We do recommend wearing disposable gloves when applying it, as the cream is very yellow and can stain hands and clothing.
View current price on Amazon → Battles Summer Fly Cream
NAF Off Extra Effect Fly Spray
The product we use is NAF Off Extra Effect Fly Spray, which we have found to be effective and easy to use around alpacas. We particularly value it around females giving birth and new mothers with cria at foot, helping to reduce fly irritation during an already demanding time.
View current price on Amazon → NAF Off Extra Effect Fly Spray
Warning Signs of Flystrike
Fly problems are annoying, but flystrike is the complication that worries most alpaca owners.
Flystrike occurs when certain flies lay eggs on an alpaca's fleece or skin. These eggs hatch into maggots which begin feeding on the animal's tissue. The condition can develop surprisingly quickly and should always be treated as an emergency. In some cases significant tissue damage can occur within hours.
Flystrike is most common during warm, humid weather, particularly after periods of rain followed by warmer temperatures. Risk is generally highest during spring, summer and early autumn, especially in heavily fleeced animals.
One of the reasons flystrike can be difficult to detect is that the earliest signs are often behavioural rather than physical. An alpaca may become restless, appear uncomfortable, spend more time lying down and getting up, or separate itself from the rest of the herd.
As the condition develops, owners may notice damp or dark patches in the fleece, flies gathering around a particular area, or the distinctive unpleasant smell often associated with flystrike. Common areas affected include around and under the tail, the neck and shoulders, the topknot and any existing wounds or areas of skin damage.
During periods when flies are active, we check all of our alpacas at least once a day and increase this to several times a day during warm, wet weather. In my experience, regular observation remains the most effective way of catching problems before they become serious.
What to Do if You Suspect Flystrike
If you suspect flystrike, act immediately and seek veterinary advice as soon as possible. Do not adopt a "wait and see" approach if flystrike is suspected.
Flystrike can progress very rapidly and significant tissue damage can occur within a matter of hours rather than days. Early treatment gives the best chance of a quick recovery and helps minimise pain and suffering.
Treatment usually involves clipping away the affected fleece, thoroughly cleaning the area and removing all maggots. Depending on the severity of the wound, veterinary treatment may also include pain relief, anti-inflammatory medication, antibiotics and appropriate flystrike control products.
It is important to remember that there are currently no medications licensed specifically for use in alpacas and other camelids in the UK. Treatments are often used under veterinary guidance based on experience with similar species and prescribed under the veterinary cascade.
Even after treatment, wounds should be monitored carefully as any damaged area remains attractive to flies until fully healed.
If in doubt, contact your veterinary surgeon. When it comes to flystrike, delaying treatment can cause significant suffering and may even be fatal.
Nettex Strike Plus Fly Repellent
During periods of high fly activity, we use Nettex Strike Plus Fly Repellent as an additional safeguard for alpacas with healing wounds or where the risk of fly strike is particularly high. Used alongside prompt wound treatment, clipping where appropriate and careful daily observation, it helps deter flies from vulnerable areas while healing takes place.
View current price on Mole Online → NAF Strike Plus Fly Repellent
Practical Prevention Summary
Managing flies around alpacas is rarely about finding a single perfect solution. In my experience, the best results come from combining a number of simple management practices and starting them early in the season.
A good fly prevention plan should include:
• Regular poo picking and good pasture hygiene
• Keeping feeding areas, shelters and gateways as dry as possible
• Using quality fly traps and environmental fly control measures
• Supporting vulnerable animals with appropriate repellents, masks or other preventative measures
• Monitoring heavily fleeced animals and young cria particularly carefully
• Checking animals regularly and increasing inspections during warm, wet weather
Most importantly, spend time watching your alpacas. Changes in behaviour are often the first sign that something is wrong. Early detection of problems such as eye irritation, skin conditions or flystrike can make a huge difference to animal welfare and treatment outcomes.
A few minutes spent observing your herd each day is often the most effective fly control tool of all.
Regular observation remains the most effective way of catching problems before they become serious. Learning how to perform thorough health checks is one of the most valuable skills an alpaca owner can develop.
For the products mentioned in this guide, visit our Recommended Alpaca Equipment & Resources page.
Share Your Experience
If you have found other methods that work well for managing flies around alpacas, feel free to share them. Every herd and environment is different, and practical experience from other owners can be incredibly helpful.
About the author
I’m Helen Macdonald, an alpaca breeder, Registered Veterinary Nurse, and animal welfare advocate who has spent more than twenty years caring for alpacas and helping other owners along the way. Through Alpaca Power, I share practical advice, training and guidance drawn from real-life herd management and welfare experience.