Even the remains or dried juices from crushed beetles on the hay may cause severe digestive and urinary tract ailments in domestic animals. Management Strategies Several management options are available which can reduce the number of blister beetles found in forage crops but none will eliminate the problem. Adjust harvest dates and maintain weed free alfalfa. Since blister beetles are readily attracted to flowering plants, controlling the number of flowering weeds in the field and cutting alfalfa prior to bloom stage will reduce the potential for infestation. Check hay for blister beetles prior to cutting.
Blister beetles are gregarious and are often found in high numbers in localized areas of the field.
Prior to harvest, growers should be aware of potential infestations, and if blister beetles are present in the field, the harvest should be delayed for several days. In many instances, the beetles will move. However, they may move to another part of the field, so a careful inspection is necessary. If beetles are present in the field at the time of harvest, avoid using hay conditioners or crimpers. These implements may kill the beetles and prevent them from moving out of the hay as it dries.