<Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> This article needs additional citations for verification . Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources . Unsourced material may be challenged and removed . (January 2017) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) </Td> </Tr> </Table> <Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> This article needs additional citations for verification . Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources . Unsourced material may be challenged and removed . (January 2017) (Learn how and when to remove this template message) </Td> </Tr> <P> A fly mask or fly cap is a mask used on horses to cover the eyes, jaw, and sometimes the ears and muzzle to protect from flies . The mask is semi-transparent and made from a mesh allowing the horse to see and hear while wearing it . The mask may also provide some protection from UV - light and some are treated with insect repellent . Fly and mosquito protection is an important part of overall horse care, as biting insects are both a source of irritation and also may transmit disease . </P> <P> Most masks are made of black or white mesh, though some are colored, plaid or have silkscreened designs on them that do not interfere with vision . Fly masks are adjusted to cover the upper head and stop about halfway down the face, but the placement of stitched darts prevents the mask from rubbing on the eyes . Most have fleece padding around the muzzle and other sensitive areas . Masks come both with and without covers for the ears . Some designs have an extended flap that covers the muzzle but does not go around the lower jaw or interfere with grazing . Most attach with velcro, but a few high - end designs made with mesh and stretch lycra need to incorporate zippers instead . </P>

Why do they cover the eyes of horses