Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for Mosquitoes on Dairy, Livestock, and Horse Farms

Recent outbreaks of equine encephalitis highlight the urgent need for effective mosquito control measures on farms. This disease is primarily transmitted by mosquitoes, with the black-tailed mosquito, Culiseta melanura, serving as a significant vector. Found from the Midwest to the East Coast, Culiseta melanura typically produces two generations per summer. The virus is maintained through a natural cycle involving birds and mosquitoes, but other mosquito species can also transmit it after feeding on an infected host. Controlling Culiseta melanura is challenging due to its preferred habitat of swamps, which are difficult to manage. Additionally, since other potential mosquito vectors require aquatic environments for reproduction, any standing water on a farm or near a home can become a breeding ground. Effective management should include regular monitoring and elimination of standing water, alongside integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, to reduce mosquito populations and the associated risk of equine encephalitis. For more information on Culiseta melanura please view the following site: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/IN950#

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Reducing Mosquito Breeding Sites

The most crucial step in mosquito control is limiting their breeding areas. Mosquitoes can lay eggs in any standing water, from small containers, puddles to large ponds. Here are some key areas to monitor and manage:

1. Old Tires: Tires used to secure silage pit plastic can collect water, providing a perfect breeding site. If using tires on the farm, ensure they are cut or drilled to prevent water accumulation.
2. Plastic from Hay or Haylage Bags: Discarded plastic can create pockets that collect rainwater, creating mosquito habitats. Dispose of or recycle old plastic properly to avoid this issue.
3. Manure Lagoons: While lagoons are essential for managing liquid manure, they can also become mosquito breeding sites. Properly constructed and maintained lagoons are less likely to support mosquito populations. Regularly remove weeds from the banks and edges to reduce their attractiveness to mosquitoes.
4. Waterers: Ensure that all waterers are regularly cleaned to remove organic material and replace the water frequently. Repair any leaks that may cause standing water to accumulate around waterers, as these can become breeding sites.
5. Barn and Barnyard Drainage: Proper drainage around barns is crucial. Ensure rainwater can drain away from the barns to avoid standing water. Gutters should be kept clear of organic debris that could cause water to pool.
6. Containers and Equipment: Old containers or equipment that collect water should be emptied or disposed of properly. Regularly inspect the farm for any items that could collect rainwater and create mosquito habitats.
7. Rainwater Barrels: While useful for water conservation, rainwater barrels can be ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Empty these barrels weekly to disrupt the mosquito life cycle and prevent eggs from developing into larvae.
8. Natural Water Bodies: Ponds and swamps are natural habitats for mosquitoes and can be challenging to manage. While treatment options are available, they typically require a special DEC (Department of Environmental Conservation) permit and must be applied by a certified applicator.
9. Biological Control Options: Biological control for mosquitoes is limited but can be helpful as part of an IPM approach. Predators like birds, bats, and predatory insects feed on adult mosquitoes, but their impact is usually not sufficient to keep populations low due to the high reproductive rate of mosquitoes. For controlling larvae, Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis, a naturally occurring bacterium, that can only be used to control larvae in containerized waters in NYS. Make sure to follow label instructions.

Chemical Control Options

In cases of high mosquito populations, insecticide products may be necessary. It is essential to choose the right insecticide for the specific type of livestock. The VetPestX website provides a comprehensive guide to selecting and using insecticides for different livestock species, including the appropriate formulations and application methods. You can access VetPestX at VetPestX.

Vaccination and Consultation

Vaccination against mosquito-borne diseases like equine encephalitis is an essential part of disease prevention. Consult with your veterinarian for vaccination options and recommendations tailored to your farm’s needs.

By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce the mosquito population on your farm and help protect your livestock from mosquito-borne diseases. Remember, the key to mosquito control is vigilant monitoring and proactive management of potential breeding sites.

References:

DEC Pesticide Products to Control Mosquitoes

DEC Mosquito Control.

Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE)

Managing Mosquitoes on the Farm

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Reducing the Risk of Mosquito Breeding on Farms

Black-Tailed Mosquito Culiseta melanura (Coquillett) (Insecta: Diptera: Culicidae)

https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/IN950#

Author: Ken Wise-NYSIPM, Cornell University, Dairy and Livestock IPM Coordinator