Australian summers bring flies, midges and mosquitoes, and horses feel all of it. Bites around the eyes, ears and belly, constant tail swishing, stamping and head shaking: a fly-bothered horse can't rest, graze or train properly. The good news is that a few simple habits make a big difference.
1. Protect the face with a fly mask
The eyes and ears are where flies cause the most trouble. A fly mask with ears keeps flies off without blocking your horse's view. Look for fine mesh over the eyes, ear covers, and a fit that doesn't rub. Our Horse Fly Mask with Ears is a stretch fit that pulls over the head, with no velcro to rub or come undone, and it also helps shade sensitive eyes and pink noses from the sun.
Take the mask off every day to check the eyes and clean the mask, and don't leave it on overnight unless it's designed for it.
2. Cover the body with a fly sheet
For horses that get bitten along the body or belly, a light mesh fly sheet is the next step. It keeps insects off while letting air through on hot days. Our Breathable Mesh Fly Sheet has cross surcingles, a front buckle and a tail flap for full coverage. Check the fit at the shoulders and withers, and remove it in heavy rain.
3. Clean up the paddock and stable
- Pick up manure often. Many flies breed in manure, so removing it at least twice a week in paddocks and daily in yards and stables cuts their numbers.
- Get rid of standing water. Old buckets, blocked drains and puddles are mosquito nurseries. Tip them out and keep water troughs clean.
- Store feed properly. Spilled feed and wet hay attract flies. Use sealed bins and a hay net to keep hay off the ground.
4. Think about timing
Midges and mosquitoes are most active around dawn and dusk. If your horse reacts badly to bites, bring them into a stable or a yard away from water at those times, and use a fan in the stable if you can: many small flying insects struggle in moving air.
5. Use a fly repellent
A repellent made for horses adds extra protection, especially on the legs and belly. Always follow the label, test a small patch first and avoid the eyes.
6. Keep an eye on the skin
Check your horse daily during grooming for bites, lumps, hair loss or itchy patches. A grooming kit makes this part of the routine. Some horses are allergic to midge bites and need extra protection; if you notice persistent itching or sores, talk to your vet.
Quick checklist
- Fly mask on in the morning, off and checked every day
- Mesh fly sheet for horses bothered along the body
- Manure picked up at least twice a week
- No standing water near the paddock
- Stabled or protected at dawn and dusk if midges are a problem
See all our horse gear.
This guide is general information. If your horse has skin problems or eye issues, talk to your vet.