Annual Program for Cattle in Temperate Rangelands

Ticks

Climate largely unsuitable for ticks of economic importance to cattle so routine tick treatment programs not required.

Flies

 Buffalo flies are not normally a concern in this region but may spread to some parts in north western NSW in very wet seasons.

• Treat if buffalo flies are above industry threshold numbers.

Beef animals. 200 flies

Dairy animals. 30 flies

Lice

Lice on cattle are generally not an economic problem. Only treat when heavily infested as indicated by rubbing on fences or structures.

Seasonal trends

Louse numbers increase

 late autumn   early spring

Optimal timing of treatment if needed (heavy infestation)

 late autumn

Louse numbers increase from late autumn through to early spring and then decline with increasing temperatures in spring and summer. Heavy infestations are usually seen in cattle in poor body condition. In most cases the lice are a consequence, and not the cause, of poor nutritional conditions. Where lice are an on-going problem a single treatment in late autumn will usually provide effective control.

Worms

Routine worm treatment programs not required.

• Conduct a WEC following significant rainfall events.

Highest WECs

  Autumn

Other worms

  Barber’s pole worm (Haemonchus placei)

  Small brown stomach worm (Ostertagia ostertagi)

  Small intestinal worms (Cooperia species)