Got grasshoppers? Then it is likely blister beetles may be present as grasshopper eggs are a main food source for them <Link>. With drought causing more hay to be transported about the country, it is important for livestock producers and horse owners to monitor the hay and their animals for signs of blister beetles. Elizabeth Cronin shares some ways to reduce the threat of blister beetles in hay in this article.
If whole or partial insects are incorporated in bales, livestock can experience mouth sores, digestive issues, kidney damage, and even death.”
Blister beetles produce a toxin called cantharidin. In humans, this can cause minor side effects like skin irritation and blistering. For animals, accidentally ingesting blister beetles may cause gastrointestinal irritation, poisoning or even death.
Source: Drovers, June 22, 2023. Link.
Also see: Beware of blister beetles, Animal Health Digest, July 19, 2023. Link.