208 SANITARY ENTOMOLOGY 



BLOODSUCKING SPECIES 



In Birds. — Since these dipterous parasites are often highly injurious 

 to birds, and especially to certain beneficial varieties, control measures 

 should be considered although nothing has been done along this line. In 

 the Southwest it is stated that the mortality among birds is very high 

 owing to these parasites. ■ 



Possibly trapping of the adults in connection with the control of 

 other destructive species would be feasible. 



In Man. — The Congo floor maggot is the only species in this group 

 requiring special attention. The use of beds instead of sleeping mats 

 laid directly on the floor will give immediate relief. Where beds are not 

 at hand hammocks may be used.' The avoidance of sleeping in huts 

 is advisable. Thorough cleansing and disinfection of the floor should 

 destroy many maggots and the elimination of cracks in the dirt will 

 check their breeding. Where sleeping mats are used by the natives 

 they should be sunned and aired frequently. It is said that the maggots 

 are carried from one hut to aiiother in these mats, so that moving the 

 place of abode does not eliminate the trouble. 



