EFFICACY OF MUSCOVY DUCKS AS AN ADJUNCT FOR HOUSE-FLY (DIPTERA, MUSCIDAE) CONTROL IN SWINE AND DAIRY OPERATIONS

Field studies were conducted using Muscovy ducks, Cairina moschata L., to control house flies, Musca domestica L., in swine and dairy facili ties. In fly-proof calf pens, one Muscovy duck per pen reduced the adu lt fly numbers by 96.8% when compared with pens without a duck. The ma ggot population was reduced by 98.7% when compared with pens without a duck. In an enclosed calf room, fly populations on animals were reduc ed by 84 and 93% when compared with the times when ducks were not pres ent. However, in open areas of the dairy facility which allowed for im migration and emigration of house flies, statistically significant red uctions 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 con sumed house flies up to three times faster than the males. During most experiments, duck health was maintained without any supplementary fee dings. Ducks had access to flies, water, and spilled (wasted) feed. On conclusion of the studies, the least valuable ducks were sold for twi ce the invested cost ($2 cost versus $4 sale), yielding a 100% return on investment. Farmer acceptability was good.