Free Choice Feeding of Ronnel Mineral Block and Granules for Face Fly, Horn Fly, and Cattle Grub Control1

Abstract

Two formulations of ronnel, 5.5% ronnel mineral granules and 5.5% ronnel mineral block, were given free choice to Charolais cows, calves, and heifers for control of face fly, Musca autumnalis DeGeer; horn fly, Haematobia irritans (L.); and cattle grub, Hypoderma (spp.). The 5.5% ronnel mineral block was also tested in conjunction with a combination face rubber and mineral feeder. The face rubber was treated with 1% ronnel in no. 2 fuel oil. Good horn fly reduction occurred in all tests, whereas face fly reduction was negligible in 2 of 3 tests. Face fly reduction was greatest on the cattle having access to the face rubber. Bioassay of composite fecal sample with face fly larvae indicated that the manure was completely unsuitable for larval development. However, inspection of individual dung piles in the field showed relatively poor control of face fly larvae. Cattle grub control was essentially 100%. The cows and calves having access to the blocks consumed more ronnel mineral than cows and calves having access to the granular form. Open heifers consumed more ronnel mineral block than the cows and calves on either formulation.