BOONE, Iowa—Several residents have reported on social media that black flies have caused the death of a number of chickens.  Alex Merk, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Program Coordinator for Boone County reported today:

We have received notification that black flies are harming large numbers of chickens and other poultry in Boone County. According to ISU Extension and Outreach entomologist Laura Iles, the population does seem to be most concentrated in Boone County based on the calls she has received. Black flies, also known as buffalo gnats and turkey gnats, are small, blood-sucking insects slightly less than 1/4 inch long with a stout-body and hump-backed appearance. The adult flies are usually present for about 3 weeks before they die.

Assistant State Veterinarian Dr. Jeff Kaisand confirmed they have received cases of chickens dying from black flies. Kaisand recommends that poultry owners and producers protect the animals by keeping them indoors or inside netting. Keeping air moving around the animals will also help as the flies are more active in still air. Kaisand also reminded animal owners and veterinarians to report any potential foreign animal disease concerns to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.

For more information on black flies visit https://hortnews.extension.iastate.edu/black-fly

(contributed article and photo, ISU Extension, Boone County)