Sheep farmers are being warned that, due to the recent weather, flocks are at a high risk of blowfly strike,

The National Animal Disease Information Service (NADIS) is advising farmers to check their sheep at least twice a day.

NADIS says that 1 in 100 animals might be struck so vigilance and a second application of preventative treatments is recommended.

Clinical signs of fly strike include discomfort, restlessness, disturbed grazing, separation from flock, kicking or nibbling at affected areas, damp or discoloured fleece, lameness and wounds.

Sheep with with conditions such as footrot, scour, lumpy wool and existing wounds are at greater risk of suffering from fly strike.

Farmers are advised to observe the flock from a distance as disturbing the sheep will obscure the abnormal behaviour.

If symptoms are found, the vet should be consulted as soon as possible.

The affected area should be clipped and effective product used to kill the maggots.

Prompt treatment is a necessity if it is to be successful.

NADIS is also reminding sheep farmers that Insect Growth Regulators (IGRs) do not kill maggots.

Therefore, when applying an IGR for prevention during high risk periods, it is important to remember that maggots might already be present.

NADIS is asking farmers who know of a strike to log it with them to help others at alerts.nadis.org.uk.

Reports are anonymous and no data is shared. The information is used to build an active national map of when and where cases of fly strike are occurring.