Sheep producers in north-central Victoria need to be aware of the heightened risk of flystrike during periods of hot weather.

DPI animal health officer Stacey Anderson said weather conditions in north-central Victoria were currently ideal for flystrike.

Flystrike was a significant cause of lost production and welfare concerns in the sheep industry, Mrs Anderson said.

The major fly responsible for flystrike in sheep is the green blowfly, Lucilia cuprina, which is thought to be responsible for 90 per cent of flystrike cases.

The other primary cause of flystrike in Australia is the common brown blowfly.

Mrs Anderson said the timely use of appropriate preventive treatments was essential to limit the severity of flystrike.

Local farmers must carefully watch weather conditions and for the presence of flies on their sheep, she said.

Producers must consider the type of sheep they have and any conditions that might lead to the opportunity for flystrike to occur.

Sheep should be monitored more regularly and closely during danger periods. There are a number of treatments, applications and remedies available.

For advice contact your local veterinarian or animal health staff at DPI Bendigo on 5430 4444.