Texas Experts Lead Screwworm Response

AgriLife leaders highlight past experience to protect Texas livestock and wildlife

Texas A&M AgriLife leaders are sharing lessons learned from Florida’s 2016 New World screwworm outbreak to help protect Texas wildlife and livestock.  

Dr. Roel Lopez, director of Texas A&M Natural Resources Institute, and Dr. Phillip Kaufman, head of the Department of Entomology, were key figures during Florida’s crisis. 

The outbreak in Florida was the first U.S. case in over 30 years and heavily impacted the endangered Key deer population. Lopez’s team monitored deer health, studied the outbreak’s effects, and helped with recovery plans. 

Kaufman, who worked in Florida at the time, played a vital role in educating the public and supporting local extension agents with updated information. Both experts emphasize the importance of being alert and reporting unusual animal cases. 

Florida’s response was successful due to a rapid, joint effort by various agencies. Measures included releasing sterile male flies, treating affected animals, and monitoring. Despite not reaching mainland Florida, the outbreak killed around 15% of the Key deer population. 

“The biggest challenge with wildlife is monitoring and early detection,” said Lopez. “With this in mind, investigation of suspicious mortalities or the use of game cameras can serve as an invaluable tool for landowners to monitor wildlife health and document any signs of infection.” 

Monitoring wildlife, using cameras, and investigating sudden deaths can help identify infections early. Kaufman suggests that wildlife operations should have biosafety and herd management plans, like livestock producers. Tracking high-value animals is also recommended. 

With reports of screwworms moving north from Mexico, Texas has a chance to prepare and act early. As Lopez says, “If you see something, say something.”

Photo Credit: istock-fotokostic