06/11/2026
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You may be hearing more about New World Screwworm, and we want our community to understand why wildlife rehabilitators are paying close attention.
New World Screwworm is not the same as the typical fly larvae we sometimes see with flystrike. These larvae feed on living tissue, not just dead or damaged tissue. They can burrow deep into wounds, body openings, umbilical cords, ears, eyes, mouths, and even tiny breaks in the skin. If not treated quickly, the damage can become severe and even fatal.
This can affect:
β’ Wildlife
β’ Livestock
β’ Pets
β’ Birds
β’ Potentially, people
For wildlife rehabilitation, this could create some serious challenges. Animals that already come to us injured, orphaned, weak, or compromised are especially vulnerable. A tiny wound, tick bite, predator injury, umbilical area on a newborn, or damp/soiled fur can attract flies. If New World Screwworm becomes established in our area, rehabbers may see more critical cases, faster wound progression, stricter reporting needs, and more urgent intake situations.
It can also affect how animals are transported. The Texas Animal Health Commission has already placed quarantines and animal movement restrictions in affected areas. That means if New World Screwworm is suspected, the animal should not be moved out of the area. Moving an infested animal could spread the parasite to new locations and put wildlife, livestock, pets, and the community at risk.
Signs to watch for in wildlife:
β’ Visible maggots or larvae in a wound
β’ A wound that seems to be getting worse quickly
β’ A strong, foul odor
β’ Bleeding or wet-looking sores
β’ Head shaking, scratching, or obvious irritation
β’ Larvae around the ears, eyes, nose, mouth, re**um, or ge****ls
β’ Weakness, lethargy, or an animal that is down and unable to escape
If you find a wild animal with fly larvae:
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Flystrike and screwworm infestations are emergencies. The animal needs help immediately.
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Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator, veterinarian, TPWD, or TAHC for guidance first. Quarantine rules may apply, and the animal may need to be evaluated before it can be moved.
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Some products can be toxic, painful, or make the situation worse, especially for small mammals and babies.
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Cold, shock, and stress can kill fragile wildlife quickly.
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Use gloves, a towel, and a secure box or carrier with air holes. Keep the animal in a quiet, dark, warm place away from pets and children.
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This helps us determine the urgency and whether additional reporting may be needed.
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If you are in our area, message/text us with your location, photos, and what you are seeing. If you are outside our area, contact a permitted rehabber near you or check AHNow.org.
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New World Screwworm is reportable in Texas. Please do not release the animal, relocate it, or transport it long distances without speaking to a permitted rehabber or the proper authority first.
The biggest thing to remember: maggots on a living animal are never βjust gross.β They are a medical emergency.
Early action can save lives β and in the case of New World Screwworm, quick reporting and responsible containment can help protect wildlife, livestock, pets, and our community. πΎ
