In summer, particularly from May to October, horseflies are a real nuisance to grazing animals and their carers. Horseflies produce painful bites and can bother animals for hours on end. A horsefly trap reduces the number of horseflies and provides peace and quiet for your animals.

Why are horseflies so harmful?  

There are around 38 different species of horsefly. Only female horseflies bite, because they feed on blood. The mouthparts of a female horsefly contain a number of cutting blades that ‘cut up’ the skin of the prey. These mouthparts are so powerful that horseflies can bite through clothing, making them a nuisance for people too.

Horseflies use their eyes to track prey. Slow-moving objects that radiate heat are a favourite target for horseflies, and the reason why horses, cows and other grazers are bitten frequently.

Tackle horseflies with a horsefly trap

A horsefly trap is an effective way of dealing with horseflies. Several tests have demonstrated that a horsefly trap reduces the horsefly population by 90-95% - and all of this is achieved without using poison.

As the trap is designed specifically for horseflies it is a targeted tool and you will not catch many other species. It ensures the trap is extremely target-specific and not harmful to other species.

How does a horsefly trap work?

A horsefly trap consists of a black ball, covered in a net with a collection bin at the top. The black ball is heated by the sun and starts to radiate heat. As the ball hangs loose, it moves slightly making the horsefly think that it is prey. The horsefly will approach the ball, and will attempt to bite but without success. As horseflies can only fly up and then away from their prey, they end up in the collection bin. The collection bin is closed and the horseflies can no longer escape.

Where should I put my horsefly trap?

In principle, you can put a horsefly trap anywhere, but horseflies like to be close to damp areas near pastures. It is worth taking that into account when you position your trap.

It is also wise to position the trap in a place where your animals cannot reach it. You don't want your animals to kick over or damage the trap.

How many horsefly traps do I need?

One horsefly trap is enough to deal with horseflies on a plot of 10,000m2, unless it houses more than 5 horses or other animals. If you have a larger herd or a larger plot, it is best to use several horsefly traps.

Which horsefly trap should I buy?

We have several horsefly traps in our range and they differ in size and quality. For large plots we have the H-Trap or the HorseFly magnet, whilst the HT-Trap deals with horseflies in your garden or on your patio. This trap works exactly the same way, but is suitable for a much smaller plot.