Occurrence of Hippobosca equina in Polish primitive horses during the grazing season.

This research analyzed the population dynamics of the forest fly Hippobosca equina in Polish primitive horses throughout the grazing season, demonstrating varying degrees of infestation among different groups of horses.

Objective and Methodology

• The main objective of this research was to study the invasion dynamics of the forest fly, Hippobosca equina, in Polish primitive horses (Equus caballus gmelini) in the Popielno Forest Reserve, northeastern Poland.
• The study involved observation of various groups of horses including 11-12-year-old mares with foals, 6-7-year-old leading stallions, 1.5-year-old fillies, 1.5-year-old colts, and 9-10-year-old working geldings.
• The observations were conducted every two weeks for two consecutive years (2012 and 2013) from May to September, encompassing the grazing period for the horses.

Findings and Analysis

• The study discovered that the occurrence of H. equina influenced the horses’ behaviour and health conditions.
• The invasion of H. equina was found to peak from mid-June to the end of July, coinciding with an average air temperature of 21°C.
• Among the different groups, the forest flies affected working geldings, leading stallions, and 1.5-year-old colts the most.
• The highest intensity of infestation was observed in working geldings, with 28 to 34 insects per animal, followed by 1.5-year-old colts with 10 to 16 insects, and mares with foals showing 4 to 14 insects.

Significance

• By highlighting the extent and dynamics of H. equina invasion in different groups of horses during the grazing season, this study contributes valuable insights into managing the health of these horses.
• The findings also underscore the necessity for targeted and effective control measures against H. equina, particularly during the peak invasion period of mid-June to the end of July.