Flesh-Eating Parasite Found in Texas Elk Prompts Urging for Hunter and Rancher Vigilance

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has confirmed the presence of New World screwworm, a flesh-eating parasite that can affect livestock, in an elk found in Pecos County, Texas. This discovery marks the first confirmed case in U.S. wildlife during the current outbreak, prompting federal and state agencies to expand surveillance efforts and call for assistance from hunters and ranchers.

The parasite was identified after a hunter reported an infected elk that had been killed on a game ranch. In response, the USDA and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) are intensifying wildlife monitoring, while the Texas Animal Health Commission plans to adjust an existing infested zone. Officials emphasized that individuals who spend time outdoors in affected areas, particularly hunters, are crucial for early detection.

"Hunters and others who spend time outdoors near infested areas are often among the first people to encounter affected wildlife, making their observations especially valuable to surveillance and response efforts," the USDA stated. As hunting seasons progress across Texas and neighboring states, hunters are urged to be vigilant for signs of New World screwworm when observing, harvesting, or processing game animals. Suspicious indicators include visible maggots in wounds, open or enlarging wounds, a foul odor emanating from injuries, and animals exhibiting weakness or distress. Infections around the nose, mouth, ears, eyes, or genital areas also warrant attention.

TPWD advised hunters to thoroughly inspect harvested animals before field dressing or transporting them. They also recommended looking for signs such as irritated or depressed behavior, loss of appetite, head shaking, the smell of decaying flesh, or animals isolating themselves.

New World screwworm was previously eradicated from the United States decades ago but has been migrating north from Central America and Mexico. Last year, the U.S. temporarily halted livestock imports from Mexico to prevent its spread, a measure that contributed to strains in the cattle supply and increased beef prices. Imports were gradually resumed starting in August.

This is not the first detection in the current outbreak. In June, the parasite was confirmed in a Texas calf, with subsequent findings in other animals including a horse and a dog. The Texas elk case is the first identified in U.S. wildlife.

New Mexico has also reported cases, with authorities confirming screwworm in a beef cow and establishing an infested zone around the animal. Animals within this zone must undergo inspection and, if necessary, treatment before being moved. Despite the threat to animal health and meat production, the USDA has stated that New World screwworm does not affect food safety.

The National Cattlemen's Beef Association has been collaborating with state partners on screwworm containment efforts, including expanded fly surveillance, cattle treatments, and sterile fly releases. The organization has been contacted for an update on current initiatives.