USDA confirms first New World screwworm detection in US wildlife, in Texas elk
The USDA says the New World screwworm, a flesh-eating parasitic fly, has been found for the first time in U.S. wildlife, in an elk on a Texas game ranch.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture said on Wednesday it confirmed the first detection of the New World screwworm in U.S. wildlife. The parasite was found in an elk on a game ranch in Pecos County, Texas.
The elk was reported after a hunter harvested it, according to a USDA statement cited by The Guardian. The Guardian reports the USDA warned hunters and ranchers to stay vigilant to help stop the spread.
The Hill describes the screwworm as a parasitic fly. It can enter animals through open wounds and feed on living tissue.
Reported by
- The GuardianOfficials confirm flesh-eating New World screwworm parasite found in US wildlifeWed, Oct 21, 7:36 PM EDT
- CBS NewsFirst case of New World screwworm found in U.S. wildlife, USDA saysWed, Oct 21, 8:01 PM EDT
- The HillScrewworm spreads to US wildlife in Texas, USDA saysThu, Oct 22, 9:16 AM EDT
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Earlier versions (1)
- Wed, Oct 21, 8:05 PM EDT, 2 outlets: USDA confirms first New World screwworm detection in US wildlife