Farmers should be on high alert for the striped blister beetle

Livestock specialists across the country are on high alert for a toxic beetle found in hay.

The striped blister beetle is causing concern as more pests are found in alfalfa hay fields in large numbers. These beetles produce a poison, which is released when they are crushed.

An agronomy specialist says these beetles can be very hard to see and suggests cattle producers and horse owners use a hay sweep net to monitor populations.

Related:

APHIS seeks to eradicate long-horn beetle

What attracts pests to hazelnut orchards?

How you can shield your vineyards away from this destructive pest