Texas ranchers, screw worm infestation, livestock health concerns
TEXAS RANCHERS BRACE FOR FLESH-EATING SCREWWORMS
A nasty fly that burrows maggots into living animals is creeping back toward Texas after decades of being wiped out.
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The last outbreak cost tens of millions, killed cattle, and left ranchers pulling worms out of wounds by… https://t.co/m6UJF3YplL pic.twitter.com/4KNS1U4H8R
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) August 16, 2025
TEXAS RANCHERS BRACE FOR FLESH-EATING SCREWWORMS
Texas ranchers are on high alert as flesh-eating screwworms make a troubling return. This notorious pest, which burrows maggots into living animals, has been absent from the region for decades. Its resurgence poses a serious threat to livestock, with the last outbreak costing the industry tens of millions of dollars and leading to the loss of countless cattle.
Flesh-eating screwworms are the larvae of the Cochliomyia hominivorax fly. These insects lay their eggs in open wounds of animals, where the larvae hatch and begin to feed on the host’s living tissue. This gruesome process not only causes immense suffering for the affected animals but can also lead to severe financial repercussions for ranchers.
The last significant outbreak of screwworms in Texas resulted in ranchers spending enormous resources on treatment and prevention measures. Many were left pulling the worms out of their animals’ wounds, a difficult and distressing task. As the screwworms creep back towards Texas, ranchers are bracing themselves for what could be another costly battle. The risk of an outbreak has prompted ranchers to ramp up their monitoring and prevention efforts to safeguard their livestock.
For those in the ranching community, staying informed is crucial. Resources like the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service offer valuable information on how to identify and manage these pests. By collaborating and sharing knowledge, ranchers can better prepare for the challenges posed by the return of flesh-eating screwworms.
In summary, as Texas ranchers face the threat of flesh-eating screwworms, preparation and vigilance are key. The stakes are high, and the community must come together to combat this insidious pest.