Efficacy of Muscovy Ducks as an Adjunct for House Fly (Diptera: Muscidae) Control in Swine and Dairy Operations

Abstract

Field studies were conducted using Muscovy ducks, Cairina moschata L., to control house flies, Musca domestica L., in swine and dairy facilities. In fly-proof calf pens, one Muscovy duck per pen reduced the adult fly numbers by 96.8% when compared with pens without a duck. The maggot population was reduced by 98.7% when compared with pens without a duck. In an enclosed calf room, fly populations on animals were reduced by 84 and 93% when compared with the times when ducks were not present. However, in open areas of the dairy facility which allowed for immigration and emigration of house flies, statistically significant reductions were not observed. Ducks reduced fly populations on animals by 91% in an enclosed swine farrowing room. In an open dry sow facility, ducks reduced the house fly population by up to 86%. Female ducks consumed house flies up to three times faster than the males. During most experiments, duck health was maintained without any supplementary feedings. Ducks had access to flies, water, and spilled (wasted) feed. On conclusion of the studies, the least valuable ducks were sold for twice the invested cost ($2 cost versus $4 sale), yielding a 100% return on investment. Farmer acceptability was good.