Bot flies are a common concern for horse owners, as their larvae can cause health problems in horses.
The horse stomach bot fly, Gasterophilus intestinalis, is a predominant species found in North America that attacks horses, and can lead to a stomach bot larvae infestation within the animal’s system source.
These flies lay their eggs on the lower forelegs of horses, which then hatch into larvae within five to ten days source.
Once hatched, the larvae make their way into the horse’s mouth and eventually to its digestive tract, causing discomfort and potential health issues.
Aside from horses, bot flies can also impact other mammals as their larvae could live inside a host source.
Proper manure management is essential in controlling bot fly populations and preventing infestations.
By minimizing moist manure surface area and storing manure in a fly-tight area during warm months, horse owners can greatly reduce the risk of bot flies laying their eggs near their animals source.
Bot Fly Life Cycle and Infestation
Life Stages and Reproduction
The bot fly life cycle consists of three stages: egg, larva, and adult.
During the spring and summer months, adult female bot flies lay yellow eggs on the lower forelegs of horses.
The eggs hatch within a few days, allowing larvae to infest the host.
Egg
- Yellow eggs laid on horse forelegs
- Hatch within days
Larva
- Migrate through the horse’s body
- Responsible for myiasis infestation
Adult
- Adult flies emerge in spring and summer
- Lay eggs, starting the cycle anew
Infestation Process
The infestation begins when horses lick or bite the area where eggs are laid. The larvae enter through the horse’s mouth and migrate to the gastrointestinal tract.
Myiasis, the infestation of host skin for larvae nutrition, occurs as the larvae grow inside the host.
Infestation steps
- Horse licks or bites area with eggs
- Larvae enter the horse’s mouth
- Larvae migrate to the gastrointestinal tract
- Myiasis occurs as larvae grow
Migrating Larvae
The migrating larvae cause discomfort and potential health issues for the horse. In some cases, they may even migrate through the lungs or cause blockages in the intestine.
After approximately six weeks, the larvae mature and are expelled from the host.
Larvae effects
- Discomfort and potential health issues
- Possible migration through lungs or intestine blockages
In conclusion, understanding the bot fly life cycle and infestation process can help better manage and prevent myiasis in horses.
Effects of Bot Fly Larvae on Horses
Horse bot flies can cause several health issues in horses.
This section will discuss the impact of bot fly larvae on horses, focusing on the following sub-sections:
Gastrointestinal Issues
- The most common species affecting horses is Gasterophilus intestinalis, which develops in the horse’s stomach1.
- In high numbers, these larvae can cause irritation, ulcers, and colic, leading to appetite loss, weight loss, and diarrhea2.
- In severe infestations, complications can be life-threatening.
Mouth and Oral Cavity Irritations
- Bot fly larvae can also affect the horse’s mouth and oral cavity.
- G. nasalis, also known as the nose bot, targets the horse’s molars3.
- Some common symptoms include:
- Swollen tongue
- Gum irritation
- Difficulty chewing
Throat and Esophageal Problems
- G. haemorrhoidalis, or the throat bot, mainly affects the esophageal lining4.
- Common issues include:
- Throat irritation
- Esophageal ulcers
- Esophageal paralysis5
Comparison Table:
| Bot Fly Species | Affected Area(s) | Symptoms and Issues |
|---|---|---|
| G. intestinalis | Stomach | Irritation, ulcers, colic, diarrhea |
| G. nasalis | Mouth, molars | Swollen tongue, gum irritation, difficulty chewing |
| G. haemorrhoidalis | Esophagus | Throat irritation, esophageal ulcers, esophageal paralysis |
Bot Fly Larvae in Horse Manure: Detection and Diagnosis
Signs and Symptoms
Detecting bot fly larvae in horse manure may indicate an infestation in your horse. Some of the symptoms include:
- Irritation around the mouth and lips
- Colic signs or digestive upset
- Coughing or respiratory distress
These symptoms may indicate bot fly larvae have entered the horse’s body.
Veterinarian Examination and Diagnosis
To accurately diagnose bot fly infestations, a veterinarian will perform several checks:
- Physical examination: The vet will examine the horse’s mouth, lips, and nose for any signs of irritation or bot fly eggs.
- Fecal examination: The vet will check the horse’s manure for larvae presence.
If the vet detects the presence of larvae, they will recommend appropriate treatment to control the infestation.
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Physical examination | Non-invasive and quick | May not detect larvae in early stages |
| Fecal examination | Directly identifies larvae | May require lab facilities for confirmation |
Remember, early detection is crucial in managing bot fly infestations. By noticing symptoms and seeking veterinarian assistance promptly, you can help prevent more severe issues and improve your horse’s health.
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Treatment and Management
Deworming and Medications
Deworming is an essential part of managing bot fly larvae in horse manure. Horse owners should establish a worming schedule, usually in the autumn, to keep their horses healthy.
Common dewormers include ivermectin and moxidectin, which are effective in eliminating bot fly larvae.
Ivermectin and moxidectin have specific pros and cons:
| Dewormer | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Ivermectin | Broad-spectrum treatment, cost-effective | Some resistance, not effective on some worms |
| Moxidectin | Effective against resistant strains, longer-lasting | More expensive, not suitable for all horses |
Prevention Strategies
Prevention is the key to managing bot fly infestations. Some strategies include:
- Regularly inspecting horses for eggs and removing them with a bot knife
- Incorporating manure management to reduce fly development sites
- Ensuring proper timing of deworming treatments
- Providing adequate nutrients for a healthy immune system
Fly Control
Fly control methods can significantly reduce bot fly infestations in horses. Here are some effective methods:
- Using fly sprays, which repel flies and reduce larvae transmission
- Applying fly sheets, which physically prevent flies from laying eggs on the horse
- Implementing fly control measures in the stable, such as proper sanitation and fly traps
A combination of deworming, prevention strategies, and fly control can effectively manage bot fly larvae in horse manure and protect horses from the associated health risks.
Parasitic Infections and Related Health Risks
Internal Parasites and Infections
Horses can be affected by various internal parasites that can lead to infections. Some common internal parasites are:
- Ocular myiasis: Flies lay their eggs in the horse’s eyes, causing inflammation and other issues.
- Intestinal parasites: Worms like roundworms, tapeworms, and strongyles can infect a horse’s gastrointestinal tract, leading to malnutrition and other digestive issues.
Skin and External Parasites
Horses can also be affected by parasites that thrive on their skin or in their excrement, which includes cutaneous myiasis.
This condition occurs when fly larvae infest a horse’s skin, causing itchy, painful wounds.
Moreover, bot flies are attracted to horse manure, and their larvae can mature in the feces or on the horse externally.
This can lead to severe irritation and infection if not properly managed.
Impact on Horse’s Nutrition and Wellbeing
Parasitic infections in horses can have long-term consequences on their overall health, such as:
- Nutritional deficiencies due to internal parasites consuming nutrients
- Weakness and lethargy from decreased nutrient absorption
- Infections and abscesses from open wounds caused by external parasites
| Parasite Type | Impact on Horse’s Health |
|---|---|
| Internal | Malnutrition, digestive issues, poor weight gain |
| External | Skin irritation, infections, potential for internal infestation |
Preventing and managing parasitic infections in horses is crucial for maintaining their overall health and wellbeing.
This can be achieved through regular grooming, promptly removing manure, and providing proper nutrition and veterinary care.
Conclusion
In summary, the common horse stomach bot fly is a parasite that infests horse manure.
The female lays eggs on horses’ lower forelegs, and eventually, the larvae enter through the horse’s mouth.
To reduce bot fly larvae infestations, proper manure management is essential. This includes composting and not overstocking pastures.
Here are some key points to consider:
- Bot flies can infest horse gastrointestinal tracts
- Proper manure management helps control these parasites
- Composting kills weed seeds and fly larvae
Comparing two manure management methods:
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Composting | Locks in nutrients, kills fly larvae | Requires time and effort |
| Spreading | Easier to do | Could lead to more flies and weed growth |
In conclusion, understanding the life cycle of bot flies and practicing good manure management can help prevent infestations on horse farms.
Bot flies can also infect squirrels and household pets like cats.
Footnotes
St.
33 Comments. Leave new
“and though they look quite nasty, they are alleged to not harm the host.” We had one in our cat’s stomach some years back here in Florida and the larva caused the tissue to go necrotic. An expensive vet visit later and drains and such kept the cat from probably dying from it. So, perhaps when they’re on squirrels and such they won’t hurt them, but I can say for cats, no bueno.
Thank you for commenting regarding your personal experience.
Thank you for solving my mystery. Two dead mice in traps yielded two bot fly larva. We had no idea what we were dealing with. You are very knowledgeable and helpful. Here in PA we have all sorts of pests. Thanks once again.
The method for removing bot flies in Belize is to cover the opening with damp tobacco for 15 minutes or so. This will stun the parasite into releasing its hold on your flesh and it can then be squeezed out without breaking off any parts (which can result in infection). If that happens, the local remedy is to apply green papaya to the infection site. (Folks lacking green papaya can use meat tenderizer as it has the same active ingredient.)
Wow. Thanks for the tip. We have heard of the topical benefits of tobacco for parasites in the past.
Reply sent to email: You bet. I have learned and keep learning so much from WTB it’s a pleasure to contribute for a change. The tobacco method works very well; I can attest from first-hand experience (as the treater, not the patient, fortunately). You have to let the parasite get a bit of size so it can be squeezed out; some folks have a tough time letting that growth happen.
Tanya
Wow. Thanks for the tip. We have heard of the topical benefits of tobacco for parasites in the past.
Reply sent to email: You bet. I have learned and keep learning so much from WTB it’s a pleasure to contribute for a change. The tobacco method works very well; I can attest from first-hand experience (as the treater, not the patient, fortunately). You have to let the parasite get a bit of size so it can be squeezed out; some folks have a tough time letting that growth happen.
Tanya
Is it possible to get this here in the United States? I have similar painful bumps on my neck, at first I thought it was pimples or a bug bite But the pain keeps getting worse. The pain has gotten to the point that I can’t move my neck.
I used rubbing alcohol and then grabbed the air tube and pulled it out, it was 1/2 inch long.
We live just south of Denver and our German Shorthair is infested with 5-7 bot maggots, probably a rabbit variety as he is constantly hunting, investigating, and pointing on rabbit dens. I have one of the maggots in our freezer because I discovered it as it popped out when I was checking to see if the the puncture wounds we thought he had were getting infected and required a visit to the vet. I called the vet who told us we could wait and they would come out on their own as long as he is not acting sick. I am wondering how to keep him from hosting them in the future.
That is information best received from your veterinarian as we are leery of providing medical advice.
Yes, looks like it is likely a chipmunk bot, Cuterebra emasculator. Larvae are tricky to ID. But not a lot of possibilities given your location.
HELP!!!! We have found these larvae by dead mouse under our sink. What do we need to do? please respond.
So what did u do, if found one in my house
I have found 2 mice in traps now here in SW Michigan with this larva in them, my concern is if they can be found in Turkey’s as well, I raise a small number of them to sell every year to sell to family and friends. Thank you
We do not believe Bot Flies will parasitize turkeys.
Please I have the same concern!! I have been overrun by mice and found my first “larvae” in early September! I have small dogs. Do I need to be concerned for them or myself or my small grandchildren?
Hi there! I have a school project to do and its due tomorrow and it must include an intreview. May you please answer these questions. Please.
1)what is the botfly common name and scientific name?
2)Where are they found (geographical range)
3)what are the symptoms of the botfly
4)what causes the disease or parasitic infection?
5) are there any vectors?
6)what is or is there a treatment?
7)who discovered the botfly (who,when,where,and why)?
8)how can you avoid a botfly?
9)is there a cure?
10)life style/or progression of the larvae
Thank you for your time??
Hi there! I have a school project to do and its due tomorrow and it must include an intreview. May you please answer these questions. Please.
1)what is the botfly common name and scientific name?
2)Where are they found (geographical range)
3)what are the symptoms of the botfly
4)what causes the disease or parasitic infection?
5) are there any vectors?
6)what is or is there a treatment?
7)who discovered the botfly (who,when,where,and why)?
8)how can you avoid a botfly?
9)is there a cure?
10)life style/or progression of the larvae
Thank you for your time??
What it thst insect?
This also happened today at my house. The mouse was killed by a mouse trap. Then I find 4 of these wiggling things on my counter behind my microwave. What do I need to do. I disposed of one I squashed in the toilet and flushed. The other 3 I put outside in the woods?
wow I just found some of these by a deer mouse that got killed in trap
never seen anything like it. and cats eat these mouse, ., we don’t know what mouse carry
wow I just found some of these by a deer mouse that got killed in trap
never seen anything like it. and cats eat these mouse, ., we don’t know what mouse carry
I live in Upstate NY border of PA . A couple of years back I found a dead mouse underneath my oven. This is quite common and my cats usually catch them. They somehow come in from outside to that area. Anyway this particular time there was a black slimy looking thing lying next to the dead mouse , still moving. I quickly shoveled both up and threw them outside. I was at a lost as to what the black thing was. Now I believe it was a bit fly. I guess the mouse had gotten too small and it came out on its own?
I live in southern Ontario. I own a Chihuahua, we spend alot of time outside together. Last summer while she was sitting on my lap a weird long slender brown fly landed on its back. I brushed it off but like it was attached to a bungee cord it would fly right back to the spot i just brushed it off of. It seemed to be using its wings to flap and burrow into the dogs fur. It seemed so desperate to do whatever it was doing. I thought it was trying to bite the dog or lay eggs on or in it.
Now just today I came in from a walk and an identical fly was on the dogs back. I thought it was just a piece of fuzz so i brushed it off with similar results as last summer. Their was no larva last time I hope im wrong or I got to it before it laid any eggs.
I live in southern Ontario. I own a Chihuahua, we spend alot of time outside together. Last summer while she was sitting on my lap a weird long slender brown fly landed on its back. I brushed it off but like it was attached to a bungee cord it would fly right back to the spot i just brushed it off of. It seemed to be using its wings to flap and burrow into the dogs fur. It seemed so desperate to do whatever it was doing. I thought it was trying to bite the dog or lay eggs on or in it.
Now just today I came in from a walk and an identical fly was on the dogs back. I thought it was just a piece of fuzz so i brushed it off with similar results as last summer. Their was no larva last time I hope im wrong or I got to it before it laid any eggs.
I have been finding these next to Mice killed in traps as well. Nice to know that it isn’t termites or some other infestation. I’m just tossing them in the woods. Wouldn’t want them to use me as a host!
What if your cat eats these larva when they eat the mouse?
My cat doesn’t eat the parasite.
She leaves one mouse organ (gallbladder ?) and the grub. I’ve found several in southern B.C.
I’d flush them rather than help them spread.
My cat doesn’t eat the parasite.
She leaves one mouse organ (gallbladder ?) and the grub. I’ve found several in southern B.C.
I’d flush them rather than help them spread.
We just found two of the large larvae crawling out of a rabbits neck after shooting rabbit .central ny herkimer county August 2019
I found one of these on my kitchen floor..totally grossed out..we have had the odd mouse in our house. Can these things harm people..I read that these flies are parasitic..would they lay eggs on us..ooohhh im so upset..Im going to have to move !!
Bot Flies are host specific.
I come home n found 3 baby kittens on my door step they about 3 to 4 weeks old one had a huge bot fly in it’s neck n I did pull it out but I won’t do any more bc it left an abscess n the babys neck n the other one had 2 one in the ear n one in the neck but lucky for that one they was small .. I took them both to the vet n got the bot flys n abscess out n they doing really good now on there meds