The NADIS and Elanco blowfly risk forecast now shows a lower risk of blowfly strike, following a high number of outbreaks after a series of mini heatwaves during the summer. However, experts have warned farmers to keep their guards up, as cases of blowfly strike are still possible and being reported regularly.

The risk level is now 'Low' throughout most of the country, although farmers in previous years have still reported incidents well into November, with some even reaching into December.

"In most areas the falling temperatures mean that the strike risk is now relatively low," says Richard Wall, Professor of Zoology at Bristol University. "However, blowflies are still active, and any prolonged warm autumn weather could still result in late season strikes, particularly with the onset of further rain. High levels of care are still required."

43% of farmers surveyed say that blowfly season now lasts longer than 20 weeks, with 37% experiencing cases later than they had previously.

Fiona Hutchings, technical vet at Elanco said: "There are no guarantees when it comes to blowfly strike - with levels identified into November, an essential part of any strategy, has to ensure an early treatment that extends right through the long season."

Elanco is calling on SQPs to continue monitoring updates from the blowfly strike tracker and NADIS alerts and encouraging farmers to submit reports if caught out by strike. The tracker is automatically updated as strike cases are reported, providing a comprehensive and immediate warning system.

SQPs can help farmers avoid getting 'caught out' by recommending IGR preventative treatments for blowfly strike.