From Cbsnews · · 1m
First screwworm found in U.S. wildlife
A parasitic fly that eats living tissue has been detected in a Texas elk, marking the first case in American wildlife.
In brief
A parasitic fly that eats living tissue has been detected in a Texas elk, marking the first case in American wildlife. The U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed the first New World screwworm in American wildlife, found in a Texas elk, prompting expanded surveillance and hunter alerts. Originally reported by Cbsnews.
Screwworm found in Texas elk
The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced Wednesday that the first case of New World screwworm in U.S. wildlife has been found in an elk on a game ranch in Pecos County, Texas.
What the parasite does
New World screwworm is a parasitic fly that lays eggs in open wounds or body openings of warm-blooded animals. Once hatched, the larvae feed on living tissue.
Hunters told to watch for signs
Officials urged hunters to watch for visible maggots in wounds, foul-smelling injuries, weak or distressed animals, and infestations around the nose, mouth, ears, eyes or genital areas. Anyone noticing suspicious signs should report them immediately.
The key point
The U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed the first New World screwworm in American wildlife, found in a Texas elk, prompting expanded surveillance and hunter alerts.
/file/attachments/orphans/mphego-court-caryn2_236334.jpg)