Layer News: Parasitic Wasps and Red Mite Control
Parasitic Wasps
There may have been a few recent frosts, but the Spring weather is around the corner, which means the fly season is on its way. This year, St David’s have changed to a new supplier of parasitic wasps. The new company have international experience in breeding and distributing biological control for the livestock industry, plus have run many proven trials in Europe on poultry sites. The species of wasp used has a greater capability of fly control with the UK climate. The packaging and pack sizes will be more straightforward and we can apply a discount if you commit to buy a course of 6 wasp treatments. Ordering will go ahead immediately, so if you would like to discuss options or place an order please ring Alison 07769710855 or email alisonch@stdavids-poultryteam.co.uk . Flock size, age of flock and type of house are needed to calculate what you will require. The first order will be delivered to you in March.
WCLA Conference
West Country Layers Association 6th Spring Conference is being held at Exeter Race Course on 9th March. This is a free event to producers and worthy of a visit. This year’s speaker line-up are Mark Williams from BEIC, John Matcham from AgriLamp talking on LED lighting, along with a producers view of switching to LED’s from John Widdowson. Ed Nottingham from Merrick Hill Insurance will be explaining the finer details of insuring against Avian Influenza, something very topical and posing dilemmas across the producer base. Opening at 12 noon, with refreshments at 1pm and speakers at 2pm, conference closes at 5pm. Post code of Exeter Race Course is EX6 7XS. Please let Alison (WCLA Secretary) know if you can make it to save a place.
Red Mite Control
Following changes to the list of insecticides, mainly resulting in removal of many useful products effecting successful control of red mites, under the Biocides Directive, St David’s have sourced a new red mite control product. Cimetrol Super is the upgraded replacement for Stingray (taken off the market August 16). This product works in a novel and new way by having both knock down and residual properties along with a metabolic synergist, thus preventing resistance developing in red mite populations. We are planning on stocking this from next month when it becomes available. It is certainly worth putting this product into a red mite treatment programme.
If you would like to discuss any of the above topics please give the practice or Alison a call on 07769710855 or email alisonch@stdavids-poultryteam.co.uk