In addition to climatic stressors such as heat, grazing animals are also exposed to biting and annoying insects such as flies and horseflies. Our studies on heat stress have shown that the exposure of animals to different insect species is significant in pastoral systems. As the temperature-humidity index (THI) increased and over the course of the day, the insect burden increased massively. As a result of climate change, in addition to the increased direct exposure of animals to heat, an increased insect burden is expected in the future. Insect control is difficult or even impossible, especially in extensive grazing systems, so one of the most important measures to ensure animal welfare is the provision of shelter elements such as trees and shrubs. In this project we will use scientific methods to investigate the suitability of different tree and shrub species as insect screens. This will lead to practical recommendations for the selection and planting of trees and shrubs suitable for providing insect protection and/or shade in agroforestry and extensive grazing systems.
Project manager
