USDA confirms screwworm detection in Texas elk 

(Photo by Mathew Schwarts via Unsplash.)

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has confirmed the first detection of New World screwworm in wildlife in the United States, after an elk harvested by a hunter in October tested positive in Pecos County, Texas. 

The elk was located on a game ranch, according to APHIS. The Texas Animal Health Commission plans to alter the previously established infested zone to include the area surrounding the positive case. The USDA and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department are conducting additional wildlife surveillance in the area as well. 

APHIS is encouraging hunters and landowners to watch for signs of potential NWS infestations in wildlife, including visible maggots in wounds or body openings, open or draining wounds, enlarging injuries and foul-smelling wounds. Other warning signs include animals that appear weak, lethargic, isolated or distressed, as well as possible infestations around the nose, mouth, ears, eyes or genital areas. 

Outdoorspeople can find identification guidance, reporting instructions and additional resources at www.screwworm.gov. 

Lacey Vilhauer can be reached at 620-227-1871 or [email protected].