Horn fly (Diptera: Muscidae) control on cattle with insecticide ear tags attached to backrubbers and dust bags [Haemotobia irritans]

Fenvalerate- or stirofos-impregnated cattle ear tags attached to rope or chain-type backrubbers and to bags containing sand were made available to yearling steers as self-applicating devices. Stirofos tags controlled Haemotobia irritans (L.) for at least 6 weeks and fenvalerate tags remained effective for up to 18 weeks (when tests were terminated). Backrubbers containing plastic resin impregnated with insecticide should provide efficient, long-term, low-maintenance control of the horn fly on cattle.