What is the first step in controlling stable flies?

Controlling stable flies effectively begins with exclusion, which involves taking measures to prevent their entry and access to suitable environments where they can thrive. This first step is crucial as it targets the fundamental need of stable flies for breeding and feeding areas.

By focusing on exclusion, one can identify and eliminate potential habitats around livestock or other areas where stable flies may congregate. This might involve improving sanitation practices, sealing entry points, and managing waste where flies can breed.

Once exclusion is properly established, subsequent control measures, such as insecticide application, trapping, or habitat alteration, can be more effectively implemented because the populations of stable flies will be less likely to re-invade or multiply. Therefore, exclusion serves as a proactive strategy to reduce reliance on chemical treatments and enhance overall pest management efforts.