Control of Culicoides as Related to Blue Tongue in Sheep and Cattle

Between 4 August, 2009 and 29 October, 2009 sheep treated with PYthon® InsecticideCattle Ear tags (9.5 grams per tag) and cattle treated with python MagnumTM insecticideCattle Ear Tags (15.4 grams per tag) were monitored for attack by biting midges, Culi- coides spp. the slow release insecticide impregnated ear tags were applied at one per head to both sheep and cattle. in sheep, python tags prevented blood engorgement byCulicoides spp. for 2.5 months. in cattle, python Magnum tags prevented blood engorge- ment by Culicoides spp. for 2 months. the results demonstrate the ability of python and python Magnum insecticide impregnated ear tags containing 10% zetacypermethrin and 20% piperonyl butoxide to protect sheep and cattle from blood feeding by Culi- coides spp., particularly those species in the Culicoides obsoletus complex, which are proven vectors of blue tongue virus in sheep and cattle.