Horse flies are more than just a nuisance; they’re relentless biters that can make life miserable for horses and humans alike. I remember one summer when they were so bad, my mare refused to go near the pasture. Finding an effective way to control these pests is essential for enjoying your time outdoors and keeping your animals comfortable. In this article, I’ll share my top picks for horse fly traps that can help you reclaim your space.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Fly Cage Trap Horse Fly Trap: Best for large areas, uses no poison, weather-resistant.
- Starbar Fly Stik Insect Trap: Great for localized control, sticky trap, easy to install.
- Bye Bye Flys Horse Fly Trap: Visually appealing, effective in sunny locations, eco-friendly.
- Cowboy Brand The Stable Fly Trap: Durable design, targets stable flies and horse flies, easy to empty.
- RESCUE! Reusable Fly Trap: Economical, refillable, effective attractant.
Top 5 Best Horse Fly Trap Reviews
1. Fly Cage Trap Horse Fly Trap
This trap is designed to lure and capture horse flies using its distinctive shape and color, mimicking the movement of livestock to attract the flies. It’s a non-toxic way to significantly reduce the horse fly population in a large area.
Pros:
- ✅ Non-toxic and environmentally friendly.
- ✅ Effective over a large area.
- ✅ Weather-resistant construction.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires some assembly.
- ❌ May need to be moved periodically for optimal placement.
- ❌ Initial cost might be higher than other options.
Verdict: Ideal for horse owners with large pastures or properties needing a broad-coverage, non-toxic solution.
2. Starbar Fly Stik Insect Trap
The Starbar Fly Stik is a sticky trap designed to attract and capture a variety of flying insects, including horse flies. It’s easy to hang and provides a localized solution for areas where horse flies are a persistent problem.
Pros:
- ✅ Easy to install and use.
- ✅ Effective for localized fly control.
- ✅ No baiting or electricity required.
Cons:
- ❌ Sticky surface can be messy.
- ❌ Needs to be replaced regularly as it fills up with flies.
- ❌ May not be as effective in very large areas.
Verdict: A good choice for small stables, barns, or outdoor areas where you need targeted fly control.
3. Bye Bye Flys Horse Fly Trap
This visually striking trap uses a black globe to attract horse flies, which are then funneled into a collection container. It’s designed to be both effective and aesthetically pleasing, blending into outdoor environments while actively reducing the fly population.
Pros:
- ✅ Visually appealing design.
- ✅ Effective in sunny locations.
- ✅ Eco-friendly and non-toxic.
Cons:
- ❌ Primarily effective for horse flies.
- ❌ Requires sunny conditions for optimal performance.
- ❌ Might need to be emptied regularly during peak fly season.
Verdict: Best for those who want an effective fly trap that doesn’t detract from the look of their property, and who have sunny areas to place it.
4. Cowboy Brand The Stable Fly Trap
The Cowboy Brand Stable Fly Trap is a durable and reliable trap designed to target stable flies and horse flies. Its sturdy construction and effective trapping mechanism make it a popular choice for farms and stables.
Pros:
- ✅ Durable and long-lasting design.
- ✅ Targets both stable flies and horse flies.
- ✅ Easy to empty and maintain.
Cons:
- ❌ May require some initial setup.
- ❌ Needs to be strategically placed for best results.
- ❌ Can be less effective in shaded areas.
Verdict: A solid choice for farms and stables needing a robust trap that can handle a high volume of flies.
5. RESCUE! Reusable Fly Trap
This trap uses a powerful attractant to lure flies into the container, where they become trapped and drown. It’s a cost-effective and reusable solution for controlling fly populations around your property.
Pros:
- ✅ Economical and reusable.
- ✅ Effective attractant.
- ✅ Easy to set up and use.
Cons:
- ❌ Can have an unpleasant odor when full.
- ❌ Needs to be emptied and refilled regularly.
- ❌ Attractant may need to be purchased separately.
Verdict: A budget-friendly option for homeowners and smaller farms needing a simple and effective fly control solution. It works well when placed away from high-traffic areas due to its odor.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right horse fly trap depends on several factors. Here’s what to consider:
- Area Size: For large pastures, consider traps designed to cover extensive areas, like the Fly Cage Trap. For smaller spaces, sticky traps or reusable traps might be sufficient.
- Fly Species: Some traps are more effective for specific types of flies. If you’re dealing with primarily horse flies, choose a trap designed specifically for them. If you have a mix of flies, a general-purpose trap like the Cowboy Brand Stable Fly Trap may be better.
- Placement: Consider where you’ll place the trap. Sunny areas are ideal for traps that use visual attraction, while traps with attractants can be placed in shaded areas as well.
- Maintenance: Think about how much time you’re willing to spend on maintenance. Sticky traps require replacement, while reusable traps need to be emptied and refilled.
- Environmental Impact: If you’re concerned about using pesticides, opt for non-toxic traps like the Fly Cage Trap or Bye Bye Flys trap.
- Budget: Traps range in price from inexpensive sticky traps to more costly, durable traps. Consider your budget and how long you expect the trap to last.
FAQs
Q: Where is the best place to hang a horse fly trap?
A: Hang horse fly traps in sunny locations near areas where flies are prevalent, such as pastures, stables, or near water sources. Placement is key for maximum effectiveness.
Q: How often should I empty or replace my horse fly trap?
A: It depends on the type of trap and the fly population. Sticky traps should be replaced when they are full, while reusable traps should be emptied and refilled regularly, typically every few weeks.
Q: Are horse fly traps safe for pets and livestock?
A: Yes, most horse fly traps are safe for pets and livestock, especially those that don’t use poisons. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and place traps out of reach of animals if necessary.
Q: Do horse fly traps really work?
A: Yes, they can be very effective in reducing the horse fly population when used correctly. Proper placement and maintenance are essential for optimal results. Don’t expect them to eliminate flies entirely, but they can significantly decrease their numbers.
Conclusion
Choosing the best horse fly trap for your property involves considering the size of the area, the type of flies you’re dealing with, and your personal preferences for maintenance and environmental impact. Whether you opt for a large-area trap like the Fly Cage Trap, a localized solution like the Starbar Fly Stik, or an eco-friendly option like the Bye Bye Flys trap, finding the right solution can make a significant difference in your comfort and the well-being of your animals. Take the time to assess your needs and choose a trap that fits your specific situation for the best results.
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