Concerns Rise About Parasitic Fly That Threatens Cattle

For small herds, it could wipe us out.

Texas rancher, Shelbie Pippenger, about the threat of the “screwworm” outbreak” – a parasitic fly that can kill infected cows quickly, and in rare circumstances hurt other wildlife and humans.

Why It Matters: The threat of this parasite fly has put ranchers, and others, on high-alert as drought, avian flu and higher feed prices have led to smaller cattle herds, and record-high beef prices.

The U.S. eradicated screwworms (also known as “maneater” in Latin) in the 1950s but new migration patterns have brought the pests, common in South America, closer to the southern border. No approved treatment exists for cattle.

Something To Consider:

How do you combat this fly population? More flies – specifically *sterile* male flies who mate with female flies who then, do not produce offspring.

Did you know?
“Drought and high feed prices have pushed the American cattle inventory to the lowest it has been since 1952, according to the Agriculture Department.” (The New York Times)

Avian Flu Wiped Out Poultry. Now the Screwworm Is Coming for Beef

This flesh-eating parasite is a potential threat to herds across the country

More from the USDA