Natural Deer Fly Repellent

Deer fly bites hurt, draw blood and introduce diseases to livestock and people. Natural repellents provide safe alternatives to pesticides that harm the environment and kill beneficial bugs.

Identification

Deer flies, scientifically known as Chrysops spp., are smaller in size than horseflies, significantly larger than common house flies, and appear gray, light brown, yellow or black with big bright green or golden eyes. Dark markings or patterns appear on their wings.

Dangers

According to the Ohio State University Extension, deer flies "are potential vectors of such diseases as anthrax, tularemia, anaplasmosis, hog cholera, equine infections anemia and filariasis . . . ( and are) suspected of transmitting Lyme disease." They like to bite humans.

Natural Repellents

Fly swatters and repellents are the most effective weapons against deer flies. A recipe for repellent found in the Show Planner consists of: "2 cups light mineral oil, 1/2 cup lemon juice, 2 tsp. citronella oil, 2 tsp. eucalyptus oil, 2 tsp. lemon dish detergent. Mix in a spray bottle...Consult your vet and use at your own risk."

References

• Colorado State University Extension; Biting Flies; W.S. Cranshaw, et al.; May 2010
• The Show Planner; Controlling the Horse & Deer Fly
• Ohio State University Extension Fact Sheet; Horse and Deer Flies; William F. Lyon