The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department received confirmation on Oct. 21 of a New World screwworm detection in a hunter-harvested female elk in Pecos County, the agency said in a news release.
According to TPWD, a sample was collected from the elk and identified as New World screwworm at the ARS Knipling-Bushland U.S. Livestock Insects Research Laboratory in Kerrville. The agency said the detection highlights the role hunters, landowners, outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife professionals play in helping detect and manage the spread of the pest.
“We encourage all hunters and landowners to be vigilant for signs of New World screwworm while they are out in the field this season,” said Alan Cain, TPWD Wildlife Division Director. “The partnership between TPWD biologists and local hunters and landowners expedited the identification and confirmation of this new detection.”
The Texas Animal Health Commission will modify a previously established infested zone, the release said. TPWD said the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the department are conducting additional wildlife surveillance in the area.
With hunting season under way across Texas, TPWD encouraged all hunters to inspect their harvest before field dressing or moving the carcass. The agency said signs of infestation include irritated or depressed behavior, loss of appetite, head shaking, the smell of decaying flesh, fly larvae in wounds, and isolation from other animals or people.
After an animal is harvested, hunters should inspect the eyes, ears, nose, mouth, genitalia and any mucous membranes, TPWD said. The agency also advised running hands along the body and checking the feet and between the toes for wounds that may have a foul smell or maggots.
TPWD said early detection and reporting are critical. Anyone who suspects a wild animal has an infestation should contact a local TPWD wildlife biologist or call 512-389-4505, according to the release. Suspected cases in livestock and companion animals should be reported to the Texas Animal Health Commission at 1-800-550-8242. Additional resources are available at screwworm.texas.gov, the agency said.